Kentucky Coffee-tree
Gymnocladus dioicus
Kentucky Coffee-tree is a slow to moderate growing deciduous native tree in the bean family. It is resistant to air pollution and drought and makes an excellent addition to a rain garden or in a landscape to provide shade. Their interesting shape and seed pods are attractive and make for winter interest in a landscape.
Plant in the full sun in moist, well-drained soil though this tree tolerates a wide range of soil types. Select male plants to avoid seed pods. It is a good dependable city tree which is drought and air pollution tolerant
Current Sale Size: WAS 2-3 ft., NOW 18-24" bare root transplant. unsexed.
UPDATE - March 10: Unfortunately these got downgraded by the nursery supplier from 2-3 foot to 18-24 inches. We will determine an adjustment for existing customers and notify. Prices are being adjusted accordingly to $5 per tree.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
Soils: Sand, Loam, Clay
Moisture: Dry to Moist
Shade Tolerance: Full sun
Mature Height: 60 - 75 ft.
Mature Width: 40 - 50 ft.
Deer Damage Potential: High
Origin: Native
Uses: Shade, ornamental, winter interest, lumber, wildlife
WARNING: LOW TOXICITY IF EATEN. The pulp between the seeds can be mistaken for the sweet, non-toxic pulp of the honey locust. Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, irregular pulse, coma.
USDA Plant Profile