Kentucky Coffeetree

Kentucky coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus) is a large native tree found in 18 states, from New York west to Nebraska and from central Minnesota south to Oklahoma (zones 4 through 7). It averages a mature height between 60- 70 feet (some greater than 90 feet) with a spread of 35-50 feet. This tap-rooted tree establishes within 2-3 years, with an annual growth rate averaging 12-15 inches, about the same as ginkgo or white oak.

Kentucky coffeetree

Spring leaf out occurs in mid- to late spring. Recessed vegetative buds push forth as multi-pinnate compound leaves. A single leaf may measure 2 to 3 feet across, producing between 70 and 100 leaflets. Fragrant olive-white flower panicles appear in late May in clusters of 8 to 12 inches long by 3 to 4 inches wide.

In autumn its lime-yellow to golden brown compound leaves drop to become a leaf raker’s nightmare. During the winter months, the totally naked upright branches take on a stark appearance. K-coffeetree may be single or multi-trunked.

K-coffeetree grows in a wide variety of soil types and tolerates a poorly drained wet sites. No significant disease or insect pests mar the lush green tropical-like summer foliage. Bark is distinctively charcoal gray and shaggy, a trait more pronounced as the tree ages.

Spring pea-like flowers are dioecious, bearing either male or female flowers. Female trees bear clusters of broad bean pods measuring 5 -10 inches long and 1 ½ - 2 inches wide on the tips of branches. Flowers and pods are inconspicuous, mostly hidden within the dense foliage through late summer.

'Espresso' is a male cultivar with no seed pods to rake up. In colonial America the beans were harvested and a crude coffee extract was brewed, no threat to Starbucks. The leaves and bean seeds are reportedly toxic to man and grazing cattle.

K-coffeetree is rarely sold in garden centers, but is available from on-line nurseries. Notoriously difficult to transplant, young 2-inch caliper nursery-grown trees move easily.