Catuai

Origin and Genetic Cross

Catuai is a cross between two varieties: the high-yielding Mundo Novo and the compact Caturra. It was created by the Instituto Agronômico (IAC) in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. The plant is very productive compared to Bourbon, thanks to its small size, which allows for much denser plantings—almost double the plant density. The plant's shape also facilitates the application of crop protection treatments against pests and diseases.

Morphological Characteristics and Disease Susceptibility

Catuai is characterized by high vigor and short stature, although it is less compact than Caturra. However, this variety is very susceptible to coffee leaf rust. The name "Catuai" comes from the Guarani language and means "very good." Currently, Catuai is considered to offer good, but not outstanding, cup quality.

Fruit Types and Early Selection

There are types of Catuai with yellow and red fruits. Since its creation, numerous selections of this variety have been made in various countries. The cross was created in 1949 by combining yellow Caturra and Mundo Novo—initially designated as H-2077.

Introduction to Brazil and Commercialization

The variety was officially introduced for cultivation in Brazil in 1972 after pedigree selection (i.e., selection of individual plants over successive generations). It is now widely cultivated throughout the country. Many lines of the Catuai variety are available in Brazil—some of which are characterized by exceptionally high productivity.

Adaptation in Central America

Catuai lines transferred to Central America appear to be less efficient. Studies conducted in Honduras and Costa Rica did not show significant differences in yields between Catuai and Caturra. The variety was first introduced to Honduras in 1979, where it was tested by the Instituto Hondureño del Café (IHCAFÉ). Commercial distribution began in 1983 after the selection of two lines for planting. For some time, Catuai accounted for almost half of all Arabica cultivation in the country.

Impact on Cultivation and Further Crosses

Researchers at IHCAFÉ continue to actively work on further breeding of Catuai, including creating hybrids with Timor Hybrid lines. This variety also has significant economic importance in Costa Rica—it was introduced there in 1985, and its progeny have spread throughout the country. In Guatemala, Catuai appeared as early as 1970 and currently accounts for about 20% of the country's coffee production. In other Central American countries, its presence is marginal.

Impact on Coffee Cultivation Intensification

Thanks to its small stature, which allows for denser planting and more efficient harvesting, Catuai contributed to the intensification of full-sun coffee cultivation in Central America in the 1970s and 1980s.

Related Variety – Garnica

A similar variety called Garnica was developed by the Mexican Coffee Institute (INMECAFÉ) in 1960–61 by crossing Mundo Novo with Caturra Amarillo. Adaptation trials began in 1978–79, but INMECAFÉ was dissolved in 1989 before full pedigree selection was completed. Further selections were carried out by private producers in Mexico, but tracking this variety is difficult today.