Kentucky Coffeetree, Gymnocladus Dioicus
This is a beautiful specimen tree with a height of up to 50 feet and spread of up to 35 feet. Native to the mid-west United States, this tree adapts well to a variety of climates and soils and should be planted more in our valley. The only drawback is the large seed pods on the female tree. These seeds were roasted and used by early Kentucky settlers as a coffee substitute. It has been noted that raw seeds and leaves are poisonous to humans. The male variety of the coffeetree is seedless and more desirable.