Kentucky Coffee Tree produces some of the largest leaves of native trees in Illinois - but it might not look like it at first glance! This tree has doubly compound leaves made up of small leaflets. Kentucky Coffee Tree produces large, stout seed pods that are visible in the winter months. It is pollinated by bees and butterflies and is a host plant to over 100 species of caterpillars.
Pollinator Type
Bees, butterflies
Plant Type
Deciduous tree
Zone
3 to 8
Height
60-90 ft
Spread
40-50 ft
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil
Bloom Color
White
Bloom Time
May, June
Design Considerations
Kentucky Coffee Tree leafs out late in the spring and drops leaves early in the fall, so it will have bare branches for longer amounts of time than other trees. It produces large seed pods that can be messy. Provides dappled shade.
Care and Maintenance
Seed pods can be messy.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Transplant from nursery container in fall or spring.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Thornless Honey Locust
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Leaves turn yellow in the fall. Leaves on younger trees often turn brown and are often retained on the tree through the winter. This tendency for a tree to retain leaves is called marcescence.
Growth habit
This tree develops an oval-shaped crown when mature.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
