About this tree
Robinia pseudoacacia, commonly known as black locust, is native to the southeastern United States but has been widely planted throughout Europe and other parts of the world. It is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that typically reaches 15–20 m in height. The tree has pinnate leaves composed of numerous small leaflets and produces clusters of fragrant, white to pale yellow flowers in late spring to early summer. These flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially bees. After flowering, the tree produces flat, brown seed pods. Black locust is often planted as an ornamental tree, but it also has ecological benefits. It fixes nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility and allowing other plants to grow in the vicinity. The tree’s wood is dense, hard, and resistant to decay, making it highly prized for outdoor applications, from furniture to fence posts and mining structures. While its bark and seeds contain toxic compounds, these are neutralized when heated. Historically, extracts from the black locust have been used in traditional medicine.