Gymnocladus dioicus
Owner: Ontario Ltd. c/o John Madura
Nominator: Norfolk Environmental Stewardship Team (NEST)
Height: 24 m (78.7 ft)
Diameter: 111.46 cm (43.9 in)
Circumference: 350 cm (137.8 in)
Description
The Kentucky Coffee tree gets its name from its seeds which were ground into a coffee substitute by early European settlers. The seeds do contain hydrocyanic acid which poisonous so it is not recommended to do this. This tree is found naturally in southern Ontario in the Niagara Peninsula, and is planted along the north shore of Lake Ontario up to Ottawa as an ornamental. In the United States it can be found from New York to Wisconsin and south to Kentucky and Tennessee. It prefers deep, rich bottomland soils, but does tolerate drought, atmospheric pollution, and salt, which makes it a great addition to urban landscapes as a street tree. Considered a medium to large tree, it can grow to heights of 25 m or taller. Its seeds are contained in large, long (12-20 cm) flat pods and often remain on the tree into the winter. Its wood is very hard and decay resistant, making it useful for fence posts and furniture making. (Source: Focus on Forests )
Kentucky Coffee Tree leaf
(Source: Forestry Images )