Aloha,

Our original 'Ito' Catimor hybrid coffee leaf rust-resistant coffee tree has been cloned using tissue culture methods developed by Steve Starnes of UH Hilo. We have a limited number of these tissue cultured trees that are about 10-12 inches tall (or larger) and greenhouse grown. Some are ready to be planted, while others are still requiring transplanting and additional time to grow.

As available, we are selling these 'Ito' tissue cultured coffee trees on a first come, first serve basis. We ask that a minimum of two (2) trees is purchased for 'Ito' to 'Ito' pollination. The maximum limit has been lifted as of 9/27/25.

With these tissue culture cloned 'Ito' trees, you will be able to harvest and plant seed materials. However, we still warn growers of the potential of cross pollination with non-CLR resistant varieties and the development of seed with inferior genetics. Culling of phenologically non-'Ito' trees with bronze or light bronze new leaves is recommended prior to planting.

If you would like to learn more about our Catimor hybrid project, please view a recorded presentation at https://youtu.be/11-ytPT2jFU or contact me if you have any questions.

Please complete the survey if you are interested in purchasing 'Ito' tissue cultured trees. This survey is open to all coffee producers in Hawaii, but is NOT anonymous.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at andreak@hawaii.edu, 808-322-4892, or 415-604-1511 (text ok).

Thank you,
Andrea Kawabata
UH-CTAHR Extension Agent for Coffee and Orchard Crops

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