Ironwood Tree vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Ironwood Tree vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Ostrya virginiana

Gymnocladus dioicus

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Ironwood Tree
Kentucky Coffeetree

Ironwood Tree is one of the strongest and most resilient trees you will find in North America. In fact, it has the hardest and most dense wood of any North American tree. Prized for its oval shaped canopy and showy winter trunk, this striking shade tree will make a beautiful addition to any yard. Make sure you do not plant near roads as it is highly salt sensitive.

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

Ironwood Tree Quick Facts

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Spread: 6 m (20 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: any
Light: full sun
Moisture: any
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: high


Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC, NS, NB, PE
Native to: ON
Other Names: coffeetree