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Robinia pseudoacacia

Black Locust, False Acacia, Common Locust

Tree Characteristics

Leaves:

Deciduous

Height:

11 - 21m

Width:

6 - 11m

Growth Rate:

Fast

Tree Tolerances

Plant Hardiness Zone:

4, 5, 6

Shade Tolerance:

Full Sun Part Shade Full Shade

pH Tolerance:

Tolerant of acid to alkaline soil (5.0 to 8.0)

Drought Tolerance:

Very High

Flooding Tolerance:

Low

Salt Spray Tolerance:

Tolerant

Soil Salt Tolerance:

Tolerant

Planting site and Native Range

Planting Site:

Residential, Wide Median, Restricted Urban Site

Native to Ontario:

No

Native to North America:

Yes

Insects and Diseases

Most serious pest is Locust borer, however, cultivars have been developed that are resistant to this borer. Other issues include canker, powdery mildew, locust leaf miner but these are minor in comparison to the borer.

Management Notes

  • Fruit litter may be an issue
  • Thorns can be a safety concern for certain sites
  • Root suckering occurs
  • Known to naturalize or become invasive in certain regions

Cultivars 

Bessoniana, Frisia, Lace Lady, Purple Robe, Umbraculifera