Kentucky Coffee Tree

Kentucky Coffee Tree

Gymnocladus dioicus

Picturesque shade tree in both summer and winter. Its coarse ascending branches often form a narrow crown. Leaflets emerge late in spring, changing from pinkish tinged to dark, almost blue-green. Drought and pollution tolerant.

wiki-kentucky coffee-Gymnocladus_dioicus_JPG1bFragrant white flowers in spring.

Called Kentucky Coffee Tree because its seeds were once roasted to use as a coffee substitute.

Type of Plant: Ornamental Deciduous Shade Tree

Distinguishing Characteristics: Heavy, contorted branches and furrowed grey bark. Divided deep-blue-green leaves turn bright yellow in fall

Water Use: Low

Flower Color: White

Sun/Location: Full Sun

Approximate Height at Maturity*: 50'

Approximate Spread at Maturity*: 40'

*Under average conditions in Northern New Mexico