Has some of the largest leaves of any tree in North America, often 2–3 feet long, with many small leaflets giving it a tropical appearance.
Male and female flowers occur on separate trees—meaning only female trees produce the large seed pods.
Early settlers roasted the seeds as a coffee substitute, but raw seeds are toxic and should not be consumed without preparation.
The name “coffeetree” comes from this historic use, though it is not related to the true coffee plant (Coffea species).
Its wood is heavy, strong, and rot-resistant, historically used for fence posts, furniture, and cabinetry.
The large seed pods are not commonly eaten by wildlife today, though it’s thought Pleistocene megafauna (like mammoths) once dispersed them.
Naturally uncommon across its range, it often stands out as a majestic specimen tree in both wild and planted landscapes.
Has some of the largest leaves of any tree in North America, often 2–3 feet long, with many small leaflets giving it a tropical appearance.
Male and female flowers occur on separate trees—meaning only female trees produce the large seed pods.
Early settlers roasted the seeds as a coffee substitute, but raw seeds are toxic and should not be consumed without preparation.
The name “coffeetree” comes from this historic use, though it is not related to the true coffee plant (Coffea species).
Its wood is heavy, strong, and rot-resistant, historically used for fence posts, furniture, and cabinetry.
The large seed pods are not commonly eaten by wildlife today, though it’s thought Pleistocene megafauna (like mammoths) once dispersed them.
Naturally uncommon across its range, it often stands out as a majestic specimen tree in both wild and planted 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
