Initially identified as a selection of Typica, genetic fingerprinting of molecular markers revealed that Java is in fact a selection of a local Ethiopian variety called Abysinia. In 1928, PJS Cramer, the famous Dutch botanist, brought a selection of Ethiopian Arabica varieties to the island of Java. From Java, this plant was first brought to neighbouring islands (Timor) and later to East Africa (Cameroon), where it was cultivated in 1980. It has since been introduced in Central America by the Centre for International Cooperation in Agricultural Research for Development (CIRAD).
In Nicaragua, Java would refer to the JavaNica variety which is highly sought after for its complex and floral cut profile. Although the origins of JavaNica are not entirely clear, it is thought to be a Typica cultivar due to its elongated bean shape. Java seeds and berries are oblong. Young leaves are tanned and trees are known to be very productive. It is known to be vigorous with moderate yield and shows good resistance to coffee sickness. Subsequently, Java was recognized for a very high quality potential in altitude. The first Central American country to officially recognize Java was Panama in 2016. This variety is an interesting alternative to Geisha, with a high-quality but more resilient cup and better tolerance to rust and CBD, for small producers.