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Public Plant Profile

Kentucky Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus

Category: Deciduous Tree • Coffeetree

Kentucky Coffeetree is a versatile tree known for its unique texture and adaptability, perfect for urban landscapes.

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Mature Height: 50-60 ft

Mature Width: 30-40 ft

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 4-8

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

The Kentucky Coffeetree is a large deciduous tree known for its unique, coarse-textured leaves and distinctive bark. It produces small, greenish flowers and is valued for its shade and ornamental qualities.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Tolerates drought once established.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, adaptable to various soil types, and prefers neutral to slightly acidic pH.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenstreet tree

Special Features

Edible seeds when roastedattractive wood for carpentry.

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established

Notes from Our Designer

Great for urban settings due to its tolerance of pollution. Provides unique texture and form.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Kentucky Coffeetree may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kentucky Coffeetree a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

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