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Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust Deciduous tree (1 Page of 5) The Robinia pseudoacacia plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Appalachian and Ozark mountain ranges. Naturalized in Britain[17]. It is a member of the Leguminosae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black locust. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Robinia pseudoacacia Common Name: Black locust Family: Leguminosae Author: L. Known Hazards: All parts of the plant (except the flowers) and especially the bark, should be considered to be toxic[4, 65, 76]. The toxins are destroyed by heat[65]. Mature Height: 25 Mature Width: 15 Habitat: Woods and thickets[43], especially in deep well-drained calcareous soils[149].
Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in any well-drained soil, prefering one that is not too rich[1, 200]. Succeeds in dry barren sites, tolerating drought and atmospheric pollution[60, 200]. Succeeds in a hot dry position.
A fast-growing tree[188], it can begin to flower when only 6 years old, though 10 - 12 years is more normal[229]. The flowers are a rich source of nectar and are very fragrant[82] with a vanilla-like scent[245].
The branches are brittle and very liable to wind damage[200]. When plants are grown in rich soils they produce coarse and rank growth which is even more liable to wind damage[11, 200].
The plants sucker freely and often form dense thickets, the suckers have vicious thorns[226]. There are some named varieties selected for their ornamental value[188], some of these are thornless[226].
Any pruning should be done in late summer in order to reduce the risk of bleeding[200].
The leaves are rich in tannin and other substances which inhibit the growth of other plants[13]. A very greedy tree, tending to impoverish the soil[13]. (Although a legume, I believe it does not fix atmospheric nitrogen[K])
A very good bee plant[7, 13, 20, 201].
This species is notably resistant to honey fungus[88, 200].
For further Robinia pseudoacacia gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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