Kentucky Coffee Tree (Gymnocladus dioicus)

from $6.00

Gymnocladus dioicus, commonly known as the Kentucky Coffee Tree, is a large, native deciduous tree found in rich woods, floodplains, and upland slopes throughout Illinois, though it is somewhat scattered in distribution. It thrives in full sun and tolerates a range of soils, including heavy clay, drought-prone, and alkaline conditions, making it a resilient choice for parks, large landscapes, and urban plantings.

This striking tree typically grows 60 to 80 feet tall and features a bold, architectural form with stout branches and very coarse, dark bark. It has bipinnately compound leaves that can reach up to 3 feet long, giving the tree a tropical appearance in summer. In late spring to early summer, male and female trees (as it's dioecious) produce greenish-white flower clusters—fragrant on female trees—which are followed by large, thick, reddish-brown seed pods. These pods contain seeds that were once roasted and used as a coffee substitute (though raw seeds are toxic).

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Gymnocladus dioicus is a majestic, long-lived tree that offers bold texture, winter interest, and habitat value. Its open canopy allows light to filter through, supporting a healthy understory. It pairs well with other large natives like Bur Oak, Common Hackberry, and Black Walnut in expansive native or naturalized landscapes.

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Gymnocladus dioicus, commonly known as the Kentucky Coffee Tree, is a large, native deciduous tree found in rich woods, floodplains, and upland slopes throughout Illinois, though it is somewhat scattered in distribution. It thrives in full sun and tolerates a range of soils, including heavy clay, drought-prone, and alkaline conditions, making it a resilient choice for parks, large landscapes, and urban plantings.

This striking tree typically grows 60 to 80 feet tall and features a bold, architectural form with stout branches and very coarse, dark bark. It has bipinnately compound leaves that can reach up to 3 feet long, giving the tree a tropical appearance in summer. In late spring to early summer, male and female trees (as it's dioecious) produce greenish-white flower clusters—fragrant on female trees—which are followed by large, thick, reddish-brown seed pods. These pods contain seeds that were once roasted and used as a coffee substitute (though raw seeds are toxic).

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Gymnocladus dioicus is a majestic, long-lived tree that offers bold texture, winter interest, and habitat value. Its open canopy allows light to filter through, supporting a healthy understory. It pairs well with other large natives like Bur Oak, Common Hackberry, and Black Walnut in expansive native or naturalized landscapes.

Bloom: late spring to early summer

Habitats: bottomland woodlands; deciduous woodlands; rich mesic woodlands; riverbanks

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: moist to mesic

Plant type (height): tree (60 to 90 feet)

Requirements: full sun to partial sun

Soil: fertile loamy soil