Kentucky Coffeetree - Gymnocladus dioicus

Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus)

Looking for a shade tree that stands out from the crowd? The Kentucky Coffeetree is a hardy, low-maintenance giant that thrives in nearly any environment—from cold winters to hot summers and from poor soil to wet conditions. When you buy Kentucky Coffeetree online from Florida Plant Nursery, you're investing in a distinctive landscape specimen that combines dramatic winter architecture with reliable, adaptable performance.

Landscaping Uses

This towering shade provider works beautifully in open yards, parks, and golf courses where its striking upright branch structure becomes a focal point year-round. Plant it away from sidewalks, power lines, and underground utilities to accommodate its mature spread. The canopy filters light gently rather than blocking it completely, allowing grass and understory plantings to flourish beneath its boughs—making it ideal for layered landscape designs.

Specifications

Height: 60–70 feet
Width: 40–50 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: Full sun
Water: Drought and flood tolerant
Soil: Any condition (poor to rich)
USDA Zones: 3–8

Why Homeowners Love It

• Extraordinary winter silhouette with uniquely ascending, interwoven branches that create visual drama when deciduous trees are bare
• Exceptional toughness—naturally resists pests, diseases, and deer damage without special treatments
• Remarkable adaptability to challenging growing conditions where other trees struggle or fail
• Dappled shade that permits sunlight to reach ground-level plants and lawn

Planting & Care

Select a full-sun location and dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but equal in depth. Position the tree away from structures, pavement, and utility lines. Backfill with native soil and apply mulch around the base, keeping it several inches clear of the trunk. Water weekly during the establishment period to encourage strong root development. Once established, this remarkably resilient tree requires minimal supplemental watering and adapts beautifully to both wet and dry seasons.