TreesRobinia pseudoacacia
Black Locust
Black Locust is a fast-growing, elegant tree with fine, pinnate foliage casting dappled shade. In May and June, hanging clusters of fragrant white pea-flowers attract bees. The tree is drought-tolerant and fixes nitrogen in the soil.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 1000–2500 cm
- Spread
- 600–1200 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, preferably sandy or loamy soil. Extremely drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil. Avoid wet, heavy clay. Note: roots produce suckers and can lift paving. All parts are toxic if ingested.
Pruning tips
Prune in summer (July-August) to avoid sap loss. Remove dead wood and water sprouts. The mop-head form (Umbraculifera) is hard-pruned annually for a compact crown. Remove root suckers regularly.
Good companions
TreesBetula pendula
Silver Birch
Silver Birch is a graceful, fast-growing tree with striking white bark that peels in thin layers over the years. The fine, pendulous branches give the tree an airy, elegant silhouette. In autumn, the small triangular leaves turn bright yellow.
TreesSorbus aucuparia
Rowan
Rowan is a graceful native tree with pinnate leaves, white flower clusters in late spring and stunning orange-red berry clusters in autumn. The tree is one of the most important food sources for birds in winter. The foliage turns beautiful orange and red in autumn.
TreesLiquidambar styraciflua
Sweet Gum
Sweet Gum is a majestic deciduous tree with star-shaped leaves that turn spectacularly in autumn to shades of red, orange, purple, and gold — often all at once on the same tree. Corky bark on older branches adds extra interest. One of the finest trees for autumn colour.