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.
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
