Gymnocladus Dioica

Description

Gymnocladus dioica, commonly known as Kentucky coffeetree, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the family Fabaceae, which is also known as the pea family. The tree grows up to 60-75 feet tall and 40-50 feet wide. It has a broad, rounded crown with an open canopy. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and rough. The leaves are bipinnately compound, with 6-10 pairs of leaflets per leaf. The leaflets are oval-shaped and about 2-4 inches long. The flowers of the Kentucky coffeetree are greenish-white and appear in late spring or early summer. The fruit is a pod-like structure that is about 4-10 inches long and contains large, hard seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Kentucky coffeetree has a unique appearance that makes it easy to identify. The tree has a thick, sturdy trunk that supports a broad canopy of leaves. The leaves are bright green and feathery in appearance, with each leaflet having a slightly different shape. In the fall, the leaves turn a bright yellow color before falling off. The flowers of the tree are small and greenish-white in color, with a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. The fruit of the tree is a long, flat pod that contains large, hard seeds. The pods turn brown in the fall and can stay on the tree throughout the winter.

Care Guide

The Kentucky coffeetree is a hardy tree that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips for caring for this tree:

• Water: The tree requires moderate watering, especially during its first few years of growth. Water the tree deeply once a week during dry spells.
• Fertilization: The tree does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring if desired.
• Soil: The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
• Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Kentucky coffeetree is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:

• Borers: The tree can be susceptible to borers, which can cause damage to the trunk and branches.
• Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that can cause the tree to develop open sores on its bark.
• Mildew: The tree can develop powdery mildew on its leaves, especially in humid conditions.

Habitat

The Kentucky coffeetree is native to North America and is commonly found in the central and eastern regions of the United States. The tree grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, woodlands, and riverbanks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate a range of growing conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Kentucky coffeetree edible?

A: While the seeds of the Kentucky coffeetree are edible, they must be roasted and ground before consumption. The raw seeds are toxic and can cause illness.

Q: What is the wood of the Kentucky coffeetree used for?

A: The wood of the Kentucky coffeetree is prized for its durability and is used for furniture, flooring, and other woodworking projects.

Q: Can the Kentucky coffeetree be grown as a bonsai?

A: Yes, the Kentucky coffeetree can be grown as a bonsai. Its unique appearance and hardiness make it an excellent choice for bonsai enthusiasts.

Q: Is the Kentucky coffeetree drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, the Kentucky coffeetree is drought-tolerant once established. However, it is important to water the tree regularly during its first few years of growth to help it establish a strong root system.

Related Plants

• Gymnocladus chinensis – Chinese coffeetree
• Gymnocladus assamicus – Assam coffeetree
• Gleditsia triacanthos – Honeylocust
• Robinia pseudoacacia – Black locust

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden: Gymnocladus dioica
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Gymnocladus dioica
• North Carolina State University Extension: Gymnocladus dioica