Origin: Eastern USA
Black locust is a medium-sized tree with distinctive ropy bark and a pair of spines at each leaf or branch node.
Read more about Tree, Bark, TwigsLeaves are pinnately compound with 3 to 9 pairs of oval leaflets and a single leaflet at the tip.
Read more about LeavesFlowers are white, pea-like and fragrant, borne in large showy clusters.
Read more about FlowersLeaves are pinnately compound, with a single leaflet at the tip and 3 - 9 pairs of leaflets along a central stalk (rachis). The rachis, which is hairy, is 20 - 30 cm (8" - 12") long.
The oval leaflets are 3 - 5 cm (1 1/8" - 2") long. Some may be bristle tipped. The upper surface is dull green, the underside paler. Leaflets droop and fold at night or in rainy weather.
Distribution
Black locust is native to the eastern United States, especially on the lower slopes of the Appalachian Mountains. It has been extensively planted as an ornamental tree and, having escaped cultivation, has become naturalized in areas well beyond its range. Because it is an early successional plant adapted to dry, open conditions it has become invasive, especially in prairie and savanna habitats across North America.
Derivation of names
The genus name, Robinia, commemorates Jean Robin (1550-1629) and his son, Vespasien Robin (1579-1662), who were herbalists to King Henry IV of France and among the first to plant black locust in Europe. Since its initial introduction, black locust has become one of the most widely planted New World trees in Europe and is now naturalized there in many areas. The species name, pseudoacacia, means "false" acacia, referring to the fact that despite the many features it shares with species of Acacia, ( the shape of the pods, pinnately compound leaves, and spines ) it is NOT an Acacia.
Biology
Like many members of the bean family, Fabaceae, black locust roots bear nodules that are inhabited by bacteria that transform atmospheric nitrogen into compounds usable by plants.
Commercial use
Although black locust wood is very hard and rot resistant, it has limited commercial value. It has been used to manufacture fence posts and railway ties, and it was previously used in the shipbuilding industry.
Wildlife value
Many species of wildlife, including rabbits, squirrels, mourning doves, and pheasants, are able to eat the seeds without ill effects. However, the inner bark, seeds, and leaves are toxic to cattle and humans and should never be eaten. The fragrant flowers attract bees, which produce a good honey from their nectar.
Black locust's place in Toronto's urban forest
Black locust has been mistakenly planted as a native tree. It is found in parks, ravines and forest edges throughout the city and spreads aggressively in areas where mowing has been discontinued.
Landscape value and potential for home planting
Black locust is a fast-growing medium-sized tree suitable for growing in yards. It requires sunny sites and does not tolerate shade. The fragrant flowers are eye-catching and increase urban biodiversity by attracting insects. Many cultivars are available. Due to its potential invasiveness black locust should not be planted adjacent to ravines or other natural areas.
Pests and diseases: Black locust is attacked by the locust borer (Megacyllene robiniae), which eats through the tree's wood, both weakening the tree and allowing other destructive pests to attack the tree. The fastest-growing specimens of black locust are the most resistant to the locust borer. Locust leaf miner turns the tree's foliage brown.
A pink-flowered cultivar of this tree is available for planting through the City of Toronto's street tree program.
Links to maps at Canadian Tree Tours: