Quick answer: Kentucky coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus) is native to 15 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Deep, rich, moist sandy loams or silty clays |
| Bloom | Bloom Jun |
| Height | 75-100 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Larval host for Bicolored and Bisected honey locust moths |
Raw seeds poisonous (roasted seeds historically used as coffee substitute)
none noted; threatened/endangered in parts of range (SW Ontario, NY State), naturalizes elsewhere but not flagged invasive
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
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