Espresso-JFS Espresso™ Kentucky Coffee Tree

Espresso™ is the seedless selection of Kentucky coffee tree sold as Gymnocladus dioicus 'Espresso-JFS'. It forms an upright, arching crown with large blue-green compound leaves and a mature size near 50 feet tall by 35 feet wide. ## Form and Seasonal Interest The [breeder’s profile from J. Frank Schmidt & Son](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/espresso-kentucky-coffee-tree/) identifies the selection, its size, oval-to-vase shape, yellow fall color, seedless fruiting behavior, and tolerance of heat, drought, cold, and alkaline soils. Its airy canopy provides filtered shade, while the bold branches remain visible in winter. ## Siting Use it as a shade or specimen tree in full sun, with space for its eventual spread. It is listed for USDA zone 4 by the breeder; the existing upper-zone limit is retained because this source establishes the lower limit but does not provide an upper one. Kentucky Cooperative Extension identifies Espresso among the predominantly male selections and recommends winter or early-spring pruning for Kentucky coffeetree. ## Maintenance Water regularly while newly planted and during establishment, then adjust irrigation to local conditions. Prune in winter or early spring to develop a strong framework. As a seedless male selection, it avoids the large pod litter associated with female trees.