GYMNOCLADUS DIOICUS / KENTUCKY COFFEE TREE

GYMNOCLADUS DIOICUS / KENTUCKY COFFEE TREE

A Majestic Native Tree with Striking Architectural Form

Gymnocladus dioicus, commonly known as Kentucky Coffee Tree, is a native deciduous tree admired for its massive, upright form, large bipinnate leaves, and bold, coarse branching that creates a dramatic silhouette. Thriving in full sun with well-drained soils, Kentucky Coffee Tree adds architectural interest, shade, and ecological value to large landscapes, parks, and naturalized areas. Its long, flat seed pods provide food for wildlife, while its tolerant nature makes it a durable and low-maintenance choice.

Why Choose Kentucky Coffee Tree?

Wildlife Friendly: Seed pods provide food for birds and small mammals.
Ornamental & Architectural: Bold, upright form with coarse, dramatic branching creates visual impact.
Low Maintenance: Drought-tolerant, hardy, and long-lived once established.
Large Shade Tree: Provides filtered shade and vertical presence in spacious landscapes.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Large bipinnate green leaves turning yellow in fall.
Flower/Seed Color: Small, greenish-white flowers in late spring; long brown seed pods in late summer.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 50–75 feet tall and 40–60 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, sandy soils, and urban conditions.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 50–75 feet tall, 40–60 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, spreading deciduous tree with coarse, architectural branching.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.
Flowering & Fruiting: Late spring flowers; produces long brown seed pods in late summer.
Fall Interest: Yellow foliage adds seasonal color.

Ideal Uses:

Large Gardens & Parks: Makes a dramatic focal point and provides filtered shade.
Naturalized Landscapes & Woodlands: Adds height, structure, and wildlife value.
Urban Plantings (Spacious Sites): Tolerates urban conditions while maintaining ornamental form.
Wildlife Gardens: Supports birds and small mammals with seeds and shelter.

Kentucky Coffee Tree is a striking and ecologically valuable native tree. Its bold form, dramatic branching, and long-term durability make it an excellent choice for large landscapes, parks, and naturalized plantings.