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Identification Clues:
The Kentucky coffeetree can be positively
identified by its doubly-compound leaf, one of which is illustrated.
Notice that the leaflets are very numerous and untoothed. The fruit
is also quite distinctive. It is a broad, flat bean pod 10 to 20
cm long. The branching pattern is alternate and the leaves deciduous.
Distribution:
The species is native to the central mid-western
states including southeastern South Dakota. It has been planted in
many areas across the state because of its unusual characteristics.
Highlights:
As the name suggets, the seeds of the species
were used as a substitute for coffee by the pioneers. Native Americans
are reported to have roasted the seeds for food. The pulp of the
pod is poisonous to livestock. This tree is one of the few legume
(bean) species that lacks the root nodules that can fix nitrogen. |
