The Typica variety is the origin of all other varieties and has the lowest genetic diversity. All varieties descended from Typica are the result of genetic mutation or cross-breeding.
Due to its complexity, a short step back in coffee history: Arabica is one of the four coffee varieties, with only Arabica and Robusta being of economic importance. From the original Arabica plant, two varieties developed through different cultivations: Typica and Bourbon. Typica plants yield about 20-30% less than Bourbon plants.
Typica was discovered in the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia, and later spread to other growing regions around the equator. Coffee was exported to Europe through colonies of the Dutch.
The plant has thin, copper-colored leaves and produces elongated, oval-shaped beans. Mature coffee trees can reach a height of 4.5 meters, making them taller than most other coffee varieties. Another exciting piece of info for identifying typica plants: While the side branches of the Bourbon plant have a 60° angle, those of the Typica plant grow more horizontally.
The flavor profile of Typica is very complex and convinces with sweetish berry flavors and a fruity acidity. However, since the variety is very low-yielding, it is now only grown in a few areas.