Identification Clues:
This young Kentucky Coffeetree can be positively
identified by its doubly-compound leaves. 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:
This 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 suggests, 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. |
