Gymnocladus Dioicus

Kentucky Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus is a large deciduous shade tree with a broad, open crown and a bold, architectural appearance. It is highly valued for its coarse branching, distinctive bark, large bipinnately compound leaves, and exceptional tolerance to drought, heat, and urban conditions.

The foliage consists of very large, bipinnately compound leaves that emerge pinkish bronze in spring, mature to bluish-green during summer, and turn clear yellow in autumn before dropping early. In late spring to early summer, fragrant greenish-white flowers appear in upright clusters. Female trees produce large, thick, dark brown seed pods containing hard seeds that often persist into winter.

Gymnocladus dioicus grows best in full sun and well-drained soils but adapts well to clay, loam, limestone, and urban soils. Once established, it is highly tolerant of drought, pollution, heat, road salt, and difficult growing conditions. It is an outstanding choice as a shade tree, street tree, park tree, or specimen for large landscapes.