Arabica
Laurina
Also known as: Bourbon Pointu, Laurina (Bourbon)
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.
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
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
Notable Farms
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
Arabica Coffee Varieties: Origin, Flavor & Genetics
Arabica is known for its complex, aromatic, and nuanced flavor. It generally has higher acidity, lighter body, and more aromatic complexity than Robusta. Notes range from floral and citrus (highland African) to chocolate and caramel (Central and South American). Sweetness is generally high, with clean, balanced cups being the hallmark of quality Arabica.
ArabicaBourbon
Sweet, complex, and balanced. Known for a pronounced sweetness, deep fruit notes (berry, stone fruit), and bright but rounded acidity. Body is medium to full with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. Among the most sought-after cup profiles in specialty coffee.
ArabicaBourbon Amarelo
Bourbon Amarelo is prized for its sweetness, complexity, and bright acidity. It has a medium body and notes of citrus, stone fruit, yellow fruit, honey, and...
ArabicaBourbon Vermelho
Bourbon Vermelho is known for its sweet, complex, and balanced cup with bright acidity, medium to full body, and notes of berry, stone fruit, chocolate, and...
ArabicaLaurina de Cayenne
laurina de cayenne laurina de cayenne is a variant of laurina (bourbon pointu) that was historically grown in french guiana. like laurina, it is a...
Related Book Chapters
- •Chapter 4: Varietals & Cultivars
- •Chapter 2: Coffee Origins
Related Articles
Continue Your Coffee Journey
Free resources and tools to deepen your knowledge.
The Complete World of Coffee
600+ pages covering origins, brewing, science, and history in depth.
Learn More →Free Sample Chapter
Read a chapter from The Complete World of Coffee — no purchase required.
Read Free Chapter →Weekly Coffee Newsletter
Latest coffee science, brewing tips, and culture — delivered weekly.
Subscribe Free →Editorial Standards & Trust

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.
Last Reviewed
August 5, 2026
Sources & References
(2)Claims are cited to verifiable sources. Peer-reviewed research is marked.
- 1World Coffee Research
- 2Specialty Coffee Association
Authoritative References
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
Contact
lyonsdenpublishers@gmail.com