Coffeetree, Kentucky

It is long-lived and easy to grow, it tolerates the worst of Nebraska's weather extremes and it will grow in both wet and dry conditions on almost any kind of soil.  Kentucky coffeetree is a fast-growing tree when young with moderate to slow growth as the tree ages attaining 12 to 14 feet in 10 years. Suitable to plant throughout the state.

Kentucky coffeetree is used by nesting birds. Due to the tree’s toxic plant parts such as the leaves and raw seeds, there is little wildlife usage as a source of food. It is fascinating to realize that these seed pods once fed mammoths and other large herbivores browsing through eastern Nebraska woodlands tens of thousands of years ago.

The leaves, seeds and pulp are poisonous and are toxic to livestock, humans, and pets. Do additional research before you attempt making "coffee".

Coffeetree is named for its hard brown seeds that were roasted by some early U.S. settlers into a coffee-like drink. Many impressive coffeetrees can be found in communities throughout the state, including a very impressive row of trees in Kearney’s Harmon Park that has reached to over 70' tall. Can I collect and plant coffeetree seeds? Yep! The seeds need to be "scarified" first. This is accomplished by pouring boiling water over the seeds and allowing them to soak for 24 hours (off the stove). Discard any of the floating seeds. This is a rule of thumb that suggests the seed's embro is too small. If it floats, it is unlikely to germinate or survive outside of its seedling stage. The seeds that appear swollen are ready for immediate planting.