Tree
Kentucky Coffeetree
Gymnocladus dioicus
Big, tough shade tree with bold winter branching and very few pests.
- Native
Quick facts
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–8
- Water
- Low once established
- Sun
- Full sun
- Size
- 60–75 ft tall × 40–50 ft wide
- Bloom & interest
- Huge twice-compound leaves casting light shade; yellow fall color; bold bare branches in winter
- Plant type
- Tree
- Native range
- Native to the central and eastern US (Midwest and Great Plains river valleys)
Why we recommend it
A large native shade tree that tolerates drought, alkaline soil, wind and city conditions with few pests. Plant male (seedless) selections such as 'Espresso' to avoid messy pods; the seeds and pods are toxic.
Best regions: Front RangeGreat PlainsGreat Basin
How to grow it
Watering to establish
Deep-water every 1–2 weeks the first two to three summers, soaking out to the drip line.
Pruning
Structural pruning in late winter while young.
Soil
Adaptable to clay, alkaline and compacted soils.
Pairs well with
Read more
Where to buy
Shop Kentucky Coffeetree from trusted growers. For the best selection of xeric plants, try a mail-order specialist or ask a local independent nursery.
- High Country Gardens (opens in a new tab)Xeric specialist
- Nature Hills Nursery (opens in a new tab)Wide selection
- American Meadows (opens in a new tab)Perennials & seeds
- Etsy (opens in a new tab)Small growers
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