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Gymnocladus spp.
Kentucky Coffeetree
Overview
Gymnocladus spp. is a small genus of three to five species of deciduous trees in the pea family (Fabaceae), with G. dioicus, the Kentucky coffeetree, native to central North America and the remaining species in eastern Asia. Trees reach 40–80 ft (12–24 m) tall and 30–50 ft (9–15 m) wide, with a high, open crown and stout, sparsely branched limbs that stand bare for much of the year. The very large bipinnate leaves, up to 3 ft (90 cm) long, are divided into many oval leaflets and cast light, dappled shade; they emerge pinkish in spring and turn yellow before falling. Plants are usually dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate trees; the greenish-white flowers are held in upright clusters in early summer, those on female trees scented. Fertilised flowers form thick, leathery pods 4–10 in (10–25 cm) long containing a few large, hard seeds set in sticky pulp. The raw seeds and pods are toxic, though the seeds of G. dioicus were once roasted as a coffee substitute. The deeply furrowed bark and coarse winter outline are features of the bare tree.
Native Range
G. dioicus is native to the central and eastern United States and adjacent Canada, growing in bottomland woods and along rivers, while the other species occur in China and South-East Asia. The North American species is now scattered and uncommon in the wild.Suggested Uses
Grown as a shade and street tree for parks, large gardens, and urban sites, where it tolerates difficult conditions and casts light, filtered shade that allows grass and plants beneath. Male or podless forms are used where fruit litter is a concern. The bold winter silhouette adds structure to large landscapes.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height40' - 80'
Width/Spread30' - 50'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in late spring and early summer, after the leaves expand, with greenish-white flowers in upright clusters at the branch tips. Male and female flowers are usually on separate trees, and only pollinated female trees set pods. The flowers on female trees carry a light rose-like scent.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Blue-green, yellow in autumnGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight