Espresso Kentucky Coffeetree
Espresso Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus 'Espresso')
Espresso Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus 'Espresso') is a striking deciduous tree known for its dark, deeply textured bark and bold, architectural branching. This cultivar offers a compact, upright growth habit and adds unique structure and seasonal interest to large landscapes, parks, and streetscapes.
Distinctive Features
'Espresso' features a dense canopy of bipinnate compound leaves that turn yellow in fall, creating a warm seasonal display. Its rugged, espresso-colored bark provides year-round visual texture and contrast. The tree produces small clusters of inconspicuous flowers in spring, followed by seed pods.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils, including clay and alkaline soils
- Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8
Ideal Uses
- Large Landscapes: Provides strong architectural form and shade
- Streetscapes and Parks: Suitable for urban planting with tolerance for varied conditions
- Specimen Tree: Creates a bold focal point in open spaces
- Naturalistic Gardens: Complements native and prairie-style landscapes
- Low-Maintenance Gardens: Performs well with minimal care once established
Low Maintenance Care
- Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought tolerant thereafter
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or crossing branches as necessary
- Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed
- Mulching: Mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
- Protection: Tolerant of urban pollution and variable soil conditions
Why Choose Espresso Kentucky Coffeetree?
- Compact Upright Habit: Suitable for smaller urban spaces
- Unique Dark Bark: Adds year-round visual interest and texture
- Tolerant and Adaptable: Thrives in a variety of soil types and urban environments
- Low Maintenance: Easy to grow with minimal care
- Focal Point: Provides bold architectural structure in landscapes
Gymnocladus dioicus 'Espresso' is a distinctive, low-maintenance tree that enriches landscapes with its dramatic bark, strong form, and seasonal color.
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