Russian Olive vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Russian Olive vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus

Elaeagnus angustifolia

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Kentucky Coffeetree
Russian Olive

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.

Russian Olive is a medium-sized deciduous tree that has attractive silvery coloured foliage with small yellow flowers that emit a fragrant sweet smell.

It is drought and salt tolerant, and works well as a shelterbelt species. Russian Olive can also be used to combat erosion.

Note: although Russian Olive is planted as an attractive boulevard tree in many northern areas, in warmer areas it can invade watersheds and is considered invasive. Please do some research and plant the right tree in the right place.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Russian Olive Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $3.49 - SAVE UP TO 42%
Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: none

Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Foliage: silver scales
Flowers: yellow
Fruit: silver-yellow, olive-like
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


In row spacing: 1.8 - 2.4 m (6 - 8 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Native to: ON
Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: silver berry oleaster, wild olive