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Arabica

Laurina

Also known as: Bourbon Pointu, Laurina (Bourbon)

Quick Answer

Laurina (also known as Bourbon Pointu) is a natural mutation of Bourbon , characterized by its low caffeine content and pointed bean shape. It is one of the few naturally low-caffeine Arabica varieties . Laurina is rare and prized for its delicate, sweet cup profile.

Key Takeaways

  • Laurina (Bourbon Pointu) is a natural mutation of Bourbon with low caffeine content (0.4 to 0.6%, compared to 1.2 to 1.5% for typical Arabica).
  • Laurina was discovered on the island of Bourbon (Reunion) in the 18th century and was prized in France.
  • Laurina produces pointed beans, hence the name 'Bourbon Pointu.'
  • Laurina nearly went extinct but was revived in the late 20th century.
  • Napoleon Bonaparte was known to drink Laurina coffee.
Summary

Laurina (also known as Bourbon Pointu) is a natural mutation of Bourbon , characterized by its low caffeine content and pointed bean shape. It is one of the few naturally low-caffeine Arabica varieties . Laurina is rare and prized for its delicate, sweet cup profile.

Laurina (also known as Bourbon Pointu) is a natural mutation of Bourbon, characterized by its low caffeine content and pointed bean shape. It is one of the few naturally low-caffeine Arabica varieties. Laurina is rare and prized for its delicate, sweet cup profile.

Origin

Discovered on the island of Bourbon (Reunion) in the 18th century. Natural mutation of Bourbon.

History

Laurina was first discovered on the island of Bourbon (now Reunion) in the 18th century. It is a natural mutation of Bourbon, characterized by its pointed beans and low caffeine content (approximately 0.4 to 0.6% caffeine, compared to 1.2 to 1.5% for typical Arabica). Laurina was historically prized in France and was even mentioned by Napoleon Bonaparte. The variety nearly went extinct but was revived in the late 20th century. Today, Laurina is grown in small quantities in Reunion, Brazil, and other origins, where it is prized for its low caffeine content and delicate flavor.

Discovery

Discovered on the island of Bourbon (Reunion) in the 18th century.

Genetics and Lineage

Laurina is a natural mutation of Bourbon, belonging to the Bourbon genetic group. The mutation affects caffeine production and bean shape, producing low-caffeine, pointed beans.

Parent Varieties

Bourbon

Hybrid Status: Not a hybrid. Laurina is a natural mutation of Bourbon.

Growth Characteristics

Laurina is a tall tree with a somewhat open growth habit. It produces pointed beans (hence the name 'Bourbon Pointu') and has low caffeine content.

Tree Size: Tall (3 to 4 meters at maturity)

Yield: Very low. Laurina yields less than Bourbon and is difficult to cultivate, which has limited its commercial adoption.

Disease Resistance: Low. Like Bourbon, Laurina is susceptible to coffee leaf rust and most major pests.

Climate and Growing Conditions

Laurina thrives in tropical highland conditions at elevations of 800 to 1,500 meters. It requires shade, well-distributed rainfall, and fertile, well-drained soils.

Climate Preferences: Tropical highland climate. Optimal temperatures 16 to 24 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall: 1,500 to 2,000mm annually.

Elevation Range: 800-1,500 meters

Processing Compatibility

Laurina is excellent with all processing methods. Washed processing highlights its delicate, sweet character.

Roasting Behavior

Laurina beans are less dense than typical Bourbon and require careful roasting. Light to medium roasts best preserve its delicate flavor.

Cup Profile

Laurina produces a delicate, sweet, and refined cup with low acidity, a light body, and notes of honey, citrus, floral, and sometimes nuts. The cup is elegant and subtle, with very low bitterness due to its low caffeine content.

Acidity

Low and delicate.

Sweetness

Very high, with honey and floral sweetness.

Body

Light, silky.

Professional Cupping Notes

Laurina lots can score 85 to 89 points in SCA cupping. It is valued for its delicate, low-caffeine character.

Common Defects

  • •Very low yield
  • •Low caffeine (a defect for some, a feature for others)
  • •Susceptible to coffee leaf rust

Brewing Recommendations

Laurina is best brewed as pour over to appreciate its delicate, sweet character. Recommended brewing temperature: 90 to 94 degrees Celsius.

Countries Where Grown

Reunion (France)BrazilColombia (limited)

Notable Farms

Various farms in Reunion and Brazil

Interesting Facts

  • •Laurina (Bourbon Pointu) is a natural mutation of Bourbon with low caffeine content (0.4 to 0.6%, compared to 1.2 to 1.5% for typical Arabica).
  • •Laurina was discovered on the island of Bourbon (Reunion) in the 18th century and was prized in France.
  • •Laurina produces pointed beans, hence the name 'Bourbon Pointu.'
  • •Laurina nearly went extinct but was revived in the late 20th century.
  • •Napoleon Bonaparte was known to drink Laurina coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

  • •World Coffee Research
  • •Specialty Coffee Association

Related Varieties

Related Book Chapters

  • •Chapter 4: Varietals & Cultivars
  • •Chapter 2: Coffee Origins
Learn more about The Complete World of Coffee →

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Editorial Standards & Trust

Keith E. Lyons

Keith E. Lyons

Author, Researcher & Coffee Educator

Keith E. Lyons is the author of The Complete World of Coffee and the publisher behind Lyons Den Publishing. A licensed trauma therapist turned specialty coffee writer, Keith blends scientific rigor with genuine passion for the craft of coffee.

Author of The Complete World of Coffee (600+ pages)Licensed trauma therapist — brings research methodology and scientific rigor to coffee writingIndependent publisher, founder of Lyons Den Publishing

Last Reviewed

August 5, 2026

Sources & References

(2)

Claims are cited to verifiable sources. Peer-reviewed research is marked.

  1. 1
    World Coffee Research
  2. 2
    Specialty Coffee Association

Editorial Standards

  • • Fact-checked against peer-reviewed coffee science research and industry standards.
  • • Reviewed by the author with documented sources for every factual claim.
  • • Updated regularly; the "Last Reviewed" date reflects the most recent verification.
  • • Corrections are made promptly when new research or evidence emerges.

Our editorial process prioritizes accuracy, scientific rigor, and practical relevance for coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Publisher

Lyons Den Publishing · Founded 2025 · San Diego, CA

Part of: Coffee Varieties

The Complete World of Coffee

615 pages. 14 chapters. The definitive guide to specialty coffee.

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