Black Locust

Robinia pseudoacacia Origin: Central and Eastern US, Eastern Appalachian Mountains Improvement status: Wild Seeds per packet: ~50 Germination tested 6/2021: 62% Life cycle: Woody Perennial Zones: 3-8 An ever-present tree in much of the US today, the original range of Black locust appears to be concentrated on the Eastern Appalachian mountains, and Ozarks. A thorny, suckering tree that can be coppiced, it's often looked at as an invasive or problem plant. Like many native trees, Black Locust is a pollinator magnet and can provide a lot of nectar for honeybees. It’s been used by farmers and homesteaders for building, fencing, and firewood being a long lasting, high heat, and rot resistant hardwood. More recently its regaining interest as an agroforestry coppice species: for animal forage and cycling nitrogen back into pasture. A truly versatile plant, with aromatic spring blooms, sometimes jasmine scented, that make a great Springtime iced or hot tea, with a little honey. The seed pods