Kentucky Coffeetree vs Schuettes Oak - TreeTime.ca

Kentucky Coffeetree vs Schuettes Oak

Gymnocladus dioicus

Quercus × schuettei (Quercus bicolor × Quercus macrocarpa)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Kentucky Coffeetree
Schuettes Oak

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.

Schuettes Oak is a naturally occurring hybrid of Swamp White Oak and Bur Oak. With a faster growth than both parent species, it is one of the fastest growing Oak trees. They are known for growing very large and wide, so space them appropriately. It is considered one of the most adaptable Oaks with little preference on soil conditions. It can handle growing in wet, saturated soils as well as those that are dry, clay, or alkaline.

The Schuettes Oak has very large acorns. They have a large cup portion like the Bur Oak, but without the fringe. Due to the Swamp White Oak parentage, the acorns have less tannins and a sweeter taste. They are a food source for various wildlife including birds, squirrels, and deer.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Schuettes Oak Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 4a
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: low
Maintenance: medium

Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Toxicity: when injested, can be toxic for many animals
Nuts: large, sweet acorns
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: yes
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: ON
Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: schuette oak, schuettes hybrid oak, swamp bur oak