Description
Coffea arabica ‘Lempira’ is a widely cultivated coffee variety developed in Honduras, valued for its strong productivity and tolerance to coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix). It is a vigorous, evergreen shrub or small tree, typically reaching 2 to 4 meters in height, with a well-branched structure and dense, glossy dark green foliage.
The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers that develop into green cherries, ripening to bright red when mature. Each fruit contains the characteristic coffee beans, which are generally known for producing a balanced cup with moderate acidity, mild sweetness, and good body. Its reliability and adaptability make it popular among growers in tropical coffee regions.
Lempira performs best in warm, humid climates at low to mid elevations. It prefers partial shade, fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, and consistent moisture. Its disease tolerance and vigorous growth contribute to stable yields under a range of growing conditions.
Germination Guide
🌍 Honduras
Moderate
Coffea arabica 'Lempira' is a dwarf Catimor cultivar originating from Honduras, known for its disease resistance, particularly to coffee leaf rust, and its adaptation to warmer climates and acidic soils. This variety exhibits slow seed germination, typically requiring 30-90 days depending on temperature and seed viability, with germination taking longer at cooler temperatures or with older seeds. Fresh, properly stored seeds are essential for successful germination of this commercially important arabica variety.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
30 – 90 days
Temperature
Min 21°C
Ideal 24°C
Max 27°C
Substrate moisture
💧💧 High
Sowing depth
Lightly covered
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to enhance germination
-
📋
Additional notes
Use fresh, viable seeds from healthy coffee cherries. Seeds are intermediate-type and lose viability quickly; use immediately after harvest or store under controlled humidity (17-22% moisture content) at 15°C for no more than 6 months.
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Well-draining seed starting mix with peat moss and perlite, or sifted river sand mixed with forest soil (50% forest soil, 50% sand). Must retain moisture while preventing waterlogging.
Recommended container
Individual small containers or seed trays with drainage holes. Deeper containers (5" deep x 3.5-4" wide) are preferred to direct taproot growth downward. Use plastic containers for better moisture retention.
Growing Tips
1) Always use fresh seeds harvested within the last 3 months; seeds lose viability rapidly and should not be stored beyond 6 months even under optimal conditions. 2) Maintain consistent soil moisture—moist but never waterlogged, as excess moisture promotes damping-off fungal diseases. 3) Use a humidity dome or clear plastic cover to maintain moisture; ventilate briefly once weekly. 4) Keep germination environment warm (70-80°F / 21-27°C) and stable; use a heat mat if necessary. 5) Apply bottom heat to accelerate germination speed. 6) Plant at ½ inch depth with seed slightly pressed into soil. 7) Germination is slow—patience is essential; seeds may take 60-90 days at cooler temperatures. 8) Once seedlings emerge and develop several sets of true leaves, gradually acclimate to lower humidity and brighter light (avoiding harsh direct sun). 9) Lempira shows good rust resistance in field conditions, making it valuable for commercial cultivation.
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