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Kentucky Coffee Tree

Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

Kentucky Coffee Tree

Shade tree

Gymnocladus dioicus

  • Full sun
  • Zones 3–8
  • 60 days to maturity
  • Flowers
  • 360" spacing
  • Moderate water
  • pH 6–8
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  • Overview

    A unique native shade tree with bold architectural presence, featuring enormous compound leaves and distinctive winter silhouette with thick, blunt branches. This tough, adaptable tree tolerates urban pollution, drought, and poor soils while casting filtered shade perfect for underplanting. An excellent conversation piece for gardeners wanting something truly distinctive.

  • Planting

    Plant male cultivars to avoid seed pods. Best planted in spring from containers.

  • Growing

    Sun: full. Water: moderate. Soil pH: 6–8. Space plants 360" apart. Germination: 21-30 (scarified seed).

  • Pests & diseases

    Common pests: Virtually pest-free. Common diseases: No significant disease problems.