Coffee Tree wood is native to eastern North America, where early settlers once roasted the seeds to make a coffee substitute. Often called Kentucky Coffeetree, it is rather uncommon, and supplies are often limited. The heartwood is a warm orange to reddish brown, with narrow yellow sapwood. The grain is porous and quite straight, similar to ash or oak. Coffeetree wood machines like a dream, virtually guaranteeing a successful turning. It also glues, stains, and finishes well.