Gymnocladus Dioicus

Gymnocladus dioicus (Kentucky Coffeetree) is a large native shade tree known for its bold, coarse texture and open branching habit. Its large compound leaves create a tropical appearance, while its durability and adaptability make it an excellent choice for urban and large scale landscapes.

Height & Spread: 60 - 75 ft x 40 - 50 ft

Bloom Time: Late spring

Light Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Adaptable; tolerates clay, poor, and urban soils

Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant

Native Status

Native to central and eastern North America, typically found in rich woodlands and floodplains.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Birds

• Provides nesting sites and shelter for songbirds.

Bees

• Flowers attract pollinators during late spring bloom.

Butterflies & Moths

• Supports native caterpillar species as a host plant.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

• Plant 40 - 50 ft apart to accommodate mature canopy.

Landscape Placement

• Best for parks, large properties, and urban plantings where a tough shade tree is needed.

Companion Plants

• Quercus macrocarpa (Burr Oak) - Pairs well in large native landscapes with long lived canopy trees.
• Celtis occidentalis (Hackberry) - Shares high tolerance to urban stress and supports wildlife.
• Amelanchier laevis (Serviceberry) - Adds seasonal interest and functions well as an understory tree.
• Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds native grass texture beneath open canopy conditions.