Kentucky Coffeetree vs Bitternut Hickory - TreeTime.ca

Kentucky Coffeetree vs Bitternut Hickory

Gymnocladus dioicus

Carya cordiformis

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

Kentucky Coffeetree
Bitternut Hickory

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.

Bitternut Hickory is a large deciduous tree that makes a great shade tree for yards and parks. This tree is native to Eastern North America. Although it produces nuts, they are bitter and inedible. Some consider this wood to be the best flavour for smoking meats.

Plant Bitternut Hickory in it’s forever home. It is difficult to transplant due to its long taproot, and may not survive.

The wood is strong and has historically been used for wheels, ladders, and furniture.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Bitternut Hickory Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 4a
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 13 m (42 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Light: full sun
Light: any
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes
Bark: ridged, durable
Nuts: bitter
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: high



Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: swamp hickory