Kentucky Coffeetree

General
Scientific Name: Gymnocladus dioicus
Family: Fabaceae (Legume)
Hardiness: Zone 4
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree
Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: >45’
Longevity: Medium
Power Line: No
Ornamental
Flowers: White
Fruit: Reddish-brown to brownish black leathery pod
Fall Color: Yellow

A medium to large tree with a graceful, upward spreading canopy. Native to eastern United States as far west as southern Minnesota and eastern South Dakota. Adapted across North Dakota south of Interstate 94. With increased interest in tree diversity, it has potential for use in community tree plantings.

Light: Full sun.
Water: Prefers moist, well drained soils.
Soil: Adaptable to a wide variety of soils, including those that are more alkaline (high pH).

Kentucky coffeetree is considered a borderline hardy tree for North Dakota, so plant only trees with a known hardy seed source.

The seeds of this tree were used by early settlers in Kentucky as a coffee substitute, hence the common name.