Black Locust (robinia pseudoacacia)

• Fast-growing deciduous tree (up to 20–30m tall) with attractive fern-like leaves and fragrant white pea-like flowers in early summer, attracting bees and pollinators.
• Highly tolerant of poor, dry, infertile, or contaminated soils; nitrogen-fixing roots improve soil fertility; excellent for reclaiming difficult sites.
• Tough and resilient: withstands drought, wind, pollution, and urban conditions; useful for windbreaks, erosion control, or agroforestry.
• Valuable pale timber (durable, rot-resistant) for fencing/posts; very thorny, provides security hedging.
• Supports wildlife with abundant nectar.
• Note: Can be invasive via suckers; thorns sharp; toxic leaves/seeds – avoid near livestock or children.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun; well-drained soil (tolerates poor/dry/clay/sandy but dislikes waterlogged); vast open space required – unsuitable for small gardens (spreads via suckers, avoid near buildings/pipes).
• Preparation: Dig hole twice root width; minimal soil improvement needed as it thrives on poor ground.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees; firm in, water well, mulch base (keep clear of trunk).
• Aftercare: Water well first few years in dry spells; remove suckers to control spread; minimal pruning (winter to remove dead/thorny branches); monitor for locust borer or leaf miner; very vigorous once established.