Coffee plant care guide
Coffea arabica
Quick answer
Water your coffee plant when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days.
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeAt a glance
- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days · summer
Every 11 to 17 days · winter - Climate
- 16–27 °C (61–81 °F)
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
When and how to water
2 cm (0.8 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 6 to 8 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 11 to 17 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bright light, some sun
Coffee plant needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your coffee plant every 14 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Humidity50–70%
Leaf drop is possible below about 13 °C (55 °F). This is a warning of risk, not a precise damage threshold.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA Animal Poison Control, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a coffee plant?
Water your coffee plant (Coffea arabica) when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
Sources5 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · native range · shrub/tree habit · habitat
- Royal Horticultural SocietyLight · soil · moisture · feeding · humidity · temperature · repotting · pests
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxLight · water · drainage · humidity · temperature · fertilizing · pests · leaf drop
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlCoffee and caffeine · methylxanthines · signs in pets
- Pet Poison HelplineCoffee beans and grounds · caffeine · signs in dogs and cats
Last reviewed:
