Growing a Coffee Plant
The coffee plant (Coffea arabica) is a tropical evergreen shrub admired both for its glossy green leaves and the coffee beans it produces. While typically grown in tropical climates, it can also thrive indoors as a houseplant in cooler regions.
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight—too much direct sun can scorch the leaves.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Humidity: High humidity is ideal, so mist the leaves or use a humidity tray.
Temperature: Best between 18°C and 24°C (65°F to 75°F). Avoid cold drafts.
Growth: Can grow up to 5 feet indoors, and with patience, it may flower and produce small coffee cherries after a few years.
The coffee plant is both decorative and functional—its fragrant white flowers and shiny leaves brighten any space.
Growing a Pineapple Plant
Despite often being called a pineapple “tree,” the pineapple (Ananas comosus) is actually a tropical plant with spiky leaves and a fruit that grows close to the ground.
Light: Needs full sun to thrive—ideally 6 or more hours a day.
Water: Water regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Pour some water into the central rosette of leaves.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures (20°C to 30°C / 68°F to 86°F). Protect from frost.
Soil: Use well-draining soil, like a cactus or succulent mix.
Propagation: Easily grown from the leafy crown of a store-bought pineapple. Simply twist it off, let it dry for a day or two, then plant it in soil.
Pineapple plants take around 2 to 3 years to produce fruit, but they make striking tropical houseplants in the meantime.
Both coffee plants and pineapple plants bring a touch of the tropics to your home or garden, offering attractive foliage and, with care, delicious rewards.
