how tall do black locust trees get

Do black locust trees have deep roots?

While a number of sources state that black locust is commonly shallow-rooted (reviews by [72,167,312]), the species occasionally develops deep roots (review by [167]). Vertical roots were found at 20 to 25 feet (6.1-7.6 m) in the Southwest (review by [167]) and 21 feet (6 m) in the Oklahoma panhandle [42].

Were did the black locust tree come from?

The Black Locust is native to the Eastern United States. It was brought to the Western United States (California) by gold miners, who grew the plant for mining timbers. Once in California, it was planted because the wood made excellent railroad timbers. Black Locust was later brought overseas to France in the 1600’s.

Are black locust trees very poisonous?

The bark, seeds, leaves and twigs of the black locust tree are toxic to humans, cattle, poultry, sheep, and horses. The black locust grows 40-100 feet tall and is most common in the southeastern states of the United States. … The black locust tree (Robinia pseudoacacia) is extremely poisonous if consumed.

Are black locust trees male or female?

The flowers of the black locust are perfect, meaning they contain both male and female reproductive parts, stamens and carpels, respectively. A cultivar of the black locust tree, "purple robe," features flowers that range from lavender to a deep purple.

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How long does a black locust tree live?

Most live to be around 60 years old. However, some specimens can grow taller than 150 feet, have a diameter of more than 5 feet, and live to be 100 years old. The branches grow erratically and without any sense of order. When the limbs are very young, they are coated in a silvery-white down that quickly disappears.

Are black locust trees fast growing?

Because it fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere, the trees grow incredibly fast (3 – 4 feet in a season) and can quickly become windbreaks, shelterbelts, and shade and shelter for animals in silvopasture grazing systems.

Where do black locust trees grow best?

Plant black locust trees in a location with full sun or light shade. It prefers loose soil that is moist but well-drained, although it adapts to most soil types.

Are black locust trees good?

Black Locusts are a good tree for erosion control, land reclamation, and for a durable hardwood that grows extremely fast. They benefit wildlife, can be used for fence posts and hardwood lumber, and produce very fragrant flowers in Spring.

What is black locust good for?

Black locust wood is useful for lumber, paper pulp, posts, and fuel. This clone growing in Hungary is straighter than most trees in North America, where borer insects and heredity typically produce crooked trunks.

How long does it take for black locust to mature?

In its native range, black locust grows rapidly following disturbances such as logging or mining. In regenerating hardwood forests in North Carolina, black locust seedlings grew 26 feet (8 m) in 3 years. They grew faster than any other species for 10 to 20 years [24].

What kills black locust trees?

Black locust stems can be cut at the base with brush-cutters, chainsaws or hand tools, followed by treating the stump with a 20-percent solution of Roundup. While the Roundup label recommends a 50- to 100-percent concentration of herbicide for stump treatment, a 20-percent concentration has proven effective.

What is the difference between honey locust and black locust?

Honey locusts can be distinguished from Black Locusts by their longer, widespread thorns and longer seedpods. The bark of the two trees is also quite different in color and shape, and the Black Locust's flowers are large, showy white clusters, while those of the Honey Locust are creamy and insignificant.

Do locust trees have deep roots?

Honey locusts have strong, deep taproots that extend as far as 20 feet down as opposed to most trees, which only extend 3 to 7 feet beneath the surface However, unlike the classic tap root system, honey locust trees also have profusely branching roots, as is characteristic of heart root systems.

Why is black locust a problem?

Black Locust is a legume, so nitrogen-fixing bacteria associated with nodules on the roots increase nitrogen content of the soil in which the tree grows. Black locust poses a serious threat to native vegetation in dry and sand prairies, oak savannas and upland forest edges, outside of its historic North American range.

Are black locust tree roots invasive?

A fast-growing tree with a shallow, aggressive root system, it can be highly invasive. As a legume, black locust fixes nitrogen.

How do you keep a locust tree from spreading?

Glyphosate, or Roundup, can also be sprayed on black locust foliage while the trees are still growing. Spray heavily, but not heavy enough that it begins to drip off the black locust tree onto other plants, as glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide. It kills everything it touches.

How fast does a locust tree grow?

Growth Rate This tree grows at a fast rate, with height increases of more than 24" per year.

What is the difference between honey locust and black locust?

Honey locusts can be distinguished from Black Locusts by their longer, widespread thorns and longer seedpods. The bark of the two trees is also quite different in color and shape, and the Black Locust's flowers are large, showy white clusters, while those of the Honey Locust are creamy and insignificant.

What kills black locust trees?

Black locust stems can be cut at the base with brush-cutters, chainsaws or hand tools, followed by treating the stump with a 20-percent solution of Roundup. While the Roundup label recommends a 50- to 100-percent concentration of herbicide for stump treatment, a 20-percent concentration has proven effective.

How does black locust spread?

Black locust reproduces vigorously by root suckering and stump sprouting to form groves (or clones) of trees interconnected by a common fibrous root system. Physical damage to the roots and stems increases suckering and sprouting, making control difficult.

What do Black Locust Trees Look Like?

DimensionsThe black locust is a moderately sized tree, usually sticking around heights of 12-30 meters, but sometimes obtaining a height of about 5...

How do Black Locust Trees Reproduce?

FloweringBlack locust trees are the most easily recognized by their incredible flowers. They appear in the early summer, are intensely fragrant flo...

Where do Black Locust Trees Grow?

It is up to debate were exactly the black locust tree originated, but it is known that it endemic to certain pockets of the United States. Their na...

What are the Growing Conditions of Black Locust Trees?

Black locust trees will truly grow anywhere where there is soil that isn't too wet, and where there ample sunlight. They are very intolerant to sha...

Are Black Locust Trees an Invasive Species?

The black locust is unique in the way that it is a species of native vegetation that is invasive in the land that it is native to. It is listed as...

What Pests Affect the Black Locust Trees?

Like all species of plants on earth, they are bound to deal with some pest or another. Luckily, black locusts have yet to experience a devastating...

How are Black Locust Trees Used?

Human UseBlack locust trees are valuable for a great number of reasons. They're an excellent tree to plant in an area that needs help with soil ero...

What is a Black Locust Tree?

Black locust is a member of the legume family, so it’s not surprising that the flowers closely resemble sweet peas. After the flowers fade, 2- to 4-inch (5 to 10 cm.) pea pods take their place. Each pod contains four to eight seeds. The seeds are difficult to germinate because of their hard coats. Like other members of the legume family, black locust captures nitrogen from the air and enriches the soil as it grows. That being said, there are a number of resources that report its cousin, the honey locust, does not fix nitrogen to the soil.

Why is it so hard to germinate black locust seeds?

Like other members of the legume family, black locust captures nitrogen from the air and enriches the soil as it grows. That being said, there are a number of resources that report its cousin, the honey locust, does not fix nitrogen to the soil.

What is the best locust tree for lawns?

Black locust makes a great lawn tree and tolerates drought, salt, and poor soil. One of the most attractive black locust trees for landscaping is the ‘Frisia’ cultivar. This highly ornamental tree has bright yellow to chartreuse foliage that holds its color well.

What is the root system of a black locust tree?

Black locust trees form a dense, fibrous root system that sends up new shoots. These shoots become a dense grove of trees if you don’t remove them regularly. In most of the Eastern United States and parts of the West, black locust has escaped cultivation and invaded wild areas.

How tall is a sage tree?

The tree can grow up to 80 feet (24.5 cm.) tall, but it usually stays between 30 and 50 feet (9 to 15 m.) in height with a canopy that spreads up to 30 feet (9 m.) wide. The irregular branches cast light shade, making it easy to grow other plants that require partial shade beneath the tree.

Do mature trees need nitrogen fertilizer?

Mature trees tolerate moderate drought but perform best when they are watered during dry spells. The tree rarely, if ever, needs nitrogen fertilizer because of its ability to fix nitrogen from the air.

What is the shape of a Pyramidalis?

New growth is bronzy red. It is short-lived and prone to borer injury. ‘Pyramidalis' (‘Fastigiata') - This upright, columnar cultivar will tolerate poor soils. It is spineless. Its shape is similar to Lombardy poplar, as it reaches a height of 40 feet with a width of 15 feet.

What soil does a black locust tree live in?

Culture: Black locust will adapt to many soils, except those that are permanently wet. It performs best on moist, loamy soils of limestone origin. Black locust transplants easily. It fixes nitrogen, partially creating its own supply of nitrogen. It is hardy in Zones 3 to 8 (possibly 9). It does have several problems, including internal decay (conk), borers and black locust leaf miner, which gives the tree a brown appearance in late summer. Although black locust does have these pest problems, with the exception of internal decay (Phellinus robineae), they seldom kill the tree. Trees with internal decay break apart in wind storms and should be removed in urban areas where their failure has the potential to cause property damage or endanger people.

How tall do black locusts grow?

Black Locust. Black Locust - Robinia pseudoacacia. Pea Family (Fabaceae) Introduction: Some cultivars of this species reach heights of only 20 to 30 feet. In May they offer fragrant flowers that are white or rose-pink, borne in racemes that are 4 to 8 inches long. Black locust is a tough tree that will survive very poor conditions.

How long are locust leaves?

Leaf: Leaves are alternate, pinnately compound and 6 to 14 inches long. Each leaf includes seven to 19 leaflets that are 1 to 2 inches long. Leaves are dark blue-green in summer and yellow-green in fall. Black locust drops its leaves early in fall. Hardiness: Winter hardy to USDA Zone 3.

Where did black locust come from?

It is thought that the botanist for France's Henry IV, Jean Robin, or his son Vespasien, sent seeds of black locust, probably from Louisiana, to Europe in the early 17th century. Although decay organisms destroy living wood rapidly, once cut, black locust has durable, hard wood.

What is the bark of a black locust?

The bark of black locust is reddish brown to almost black with deep furrows. Bees make a delicious honey from black locust flowers. Locust pods are eaten by livestock and wildlife.

How tall is a purple robe?

‘Inermis' - A thornless cultivar, this tree is small (20 feet tall) and globe-shaped. ‘Purple Robe' - This compact, rounded cultivar, one of the most attractive forms, should not exceed 30 to 40 feet in height.

What do Black Locust Trees Look Like?

The black locust is a moderately sized tree, usually sticking around heights of 12-30 meters, but sometimes obtaining a height of about 52 meters if the conditions are exactly right (and if they aren’t subjected to a disease or sickness). In mature trees, trunks reach a diameter of up to 1.2 meters.

How do Black Locust Trees Reproduce?

Black locust trees are the most easily recognized by their incredible flowers. They appear in the early summer, are intensely fragrant flowers, slightly resembling the scent of orange blossom. They are large and papilionaceous in shape (meaning shaped like a butterfly). These flowers slightly resemble the shape of an orchid and are incredibly stunning. Its uppermost petal is adorned with a yellow blotch.

What are the Growing Conditions of Black Locust Trees?

Black locust trees will truly grow anywhere where there is soil that isn’t too wet, and where there ample sunlight. They are very intolerant to shade, and that is why they are very typically found in grasslands where there is no canopy competition. Because they don’t grow particularly tall, it’s very easy for them to beat out by taller competition.

Are Black Locust Trees an Invasive Species?

The black locust is unique in the way that it is a species of native vegetation that is invasive in the land that it is native to. It is listed as invasive in the states of Connecticut, Wisconsin, and Massachusetts.

What Pests Affect the Black Locust Trees?

Like all species of plants on earth, they are bound to deal with some pest or another. Luckily, black locusts have yet to experience a devastating disease that wipes out the population. The black locust is nowhere near being endangered, but it does have to deal with the following pests.

What family is a black locust tree?

The black locust tree is part of the robiniae plant family . This is a subfamily of the plant faboideae family, to which the carob tree ( ceratonia siliqua L ., which is used as a replacement for cocoa powder) belongs as well! Funnily enough, the leguminous peas and beans are also kin to these trees.

What color is locust bark?

Their trunks stand very straight and upright and is covered in the bark that is a reddish-gray color. Black locust bark in old trees is deeply furrowed with grooves and ridges that form thin diamond shapes in the bark, and these grooves are usually an attractive orange hue.

How do black locusts reproduce?

They reproduce asexually using suckers and sexually with flowers that are pollinated by insects. Hymenoptera insects are the primary pollinators of black locust flowers. The physical characteristics of the flowers prevent the male and female parts from coming into contact, keeping self-pollination to a minimum. Black Locust seedlings can grow quite quickly, but because the seeds have a thick coat, not all of the seeds will end up germinating. Good crops of seeds can be harvested every year or every two years.

What is a black locust tree?

The black locust tree is a deciduous tree of medium-size, and it is sometimes called false acacia. Various types or cultivars of the tree can be found in the US and around the world.

What is the hardest wood to grow?

The wood of the locust tree is one of the hardest woods found on the North American continent. In addition, it is resistant to rot. These features make it popular choices for woodworking and the creation of fence posts, small boats, wooden paneling, flooring, and furniture.

What is the use of black locusts?

Human Uses. Black Locust trees are used as honey plants in the Eastern portion of the United States. European countries also use them as honey plants, and a type of honey called acacia honey is created with them. After 140 growing days, the black Locust tree flowers begin to bloom.

Why are locusts considered weeds?

Black locusts are often thought of as weed trees, because they frequently grow in areas that have been disturbed or cleared, where sunlight is plentiful between gaps in other congregations of trees. Black locusts frequently spread through underground shoots as well.

Where do locusts live?

However, the black locust is native only to southeastern North America. The exact original/native range of the tree isn’t known, and it has spread across the United States and can now be found in the entire lower 48 states, as well as parts of British Columbia and Eastern Canada.

How big is a savanna tree?

The tree produces a legume fruit which is between 5 to 10 cm or 2 to 4 inches long and about 1.3 cm or half an inch thick. The fruits usually have between 4 to 8 seeds in them. ADVERTISEMENT.

How does removal of sprouts help clones grow?

Removal of sprouts through cutting and bulldozing generates new growth. A single stem can regenerate the entire clone, sometimes even more rapidly. In one study, sprouts that had been cut regrew and blossomed 50% faster and bigger than those that hadn’t been cut.

How do black locusts reproduce?

Black locust seed pods. Photo by L. Wallis. Since black locust reproduces by the double-whammy of prolific seed production and excessive root sprouts (vegetative reproduction by underground roots), it’s very difficult to control. Removal of sprouts through cutting and bulldozing generates new growth.

What is the most difficult invasive tree to eradicate?

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), also called false acacia or yellow locust, is one of the most difficult invasive trees to eradicate. Belonging to the Fabaceae or pea family, it is endemic to the southeastern United States, particularly parts of the Appalachians and Ozarks. Planted outside of its native range for hardwood lumber and fence posts, erosion control, reclaiming of mine soil, and as nectar for honeybees, it was noted in Michigan’s jack pine barrens by 1888, and in Washtenaw County by 1862. Because black locust fixes nitrogen in the soil and spreads clonally by suckers, it can form dense colonies that overshade and outcompete native species.

Why is black locust important?

Planted outside of its native range for hardwood lumber and fence posts, erosion control, reclaiming of mine soil, and as nectar for honeybees, it was noted in Michigan’s jack pine barrens by 1888, and in Washtenaw County by 1862. Because black locust fixes nitrogen in the soil and spreads clonally by suckers, it can form dense colonies ...

When did Katie get her Master Gardener certification?

Katie received her Master Gardener certification in 1999, and has years of experience with heirloom flower bulbs and small business operations. She is passionate about encouraging kids of all ages to “go outside!” and explore the natural world.

When do peas bloom?

Fragrant, pea-like white blooms with five irregular petals appear in May-June on long clusters. Half-inch paired thorns form on twigs at the base of leaves. Flowering blooms lead to 3-4 inch brown seed pods which look like dried, flat pea pods containing 4-8 seeds; pods persist through the winter.

What is the pest that attacks trees?

Brett Chedzoy / CCE. Black locust logs. The most common pest is the Locust borer ( Megacyllene robiniae) which most often attacks living, stressed trees, causing extensive damage to the quality of the wood. Identifying and removing infected trees can go a long way. It’s critical get to know the lifecycle of the pest.

How to grow black locust?

The sheep initially prune the lower limbs for feed, and we prune thicker branches to use for tree stakes, to plant more trees! We plant very close together (3 – 4 feet apart) so that over time, we can leave some trees as the overstory, while coppicing (cutting to the ground) and pollarding (cutting above browse height) the less straight ones to provide longer-term fodder reserves for the sheep. Eventually we can harvest some posts and poles, as well.

Why are locust trees used?

The tree has been used to support nutrition in other crops, from grains to other trees. Research has shown increases in nitrogen in barley grain crops interplanted with locust, and black walnuts interplanted with locust as “nurse” trees were shown to rapidly increase their growth.

What is the food source of honeybees?

The flowers are important sources of food for honeybees. In Hungary, Black Locust is the basis of commercial honey production.

Why do sage trees grow so fast?

Because it fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere, the trees grow incredibly fast (3 – 4 feet in a season) and can quickly become windbreaks, shelterbelts, and shade and shelter for animals in silvopasture grazing systems. The nutritional value of the leaves is similar to alfalfa, making it a valuable feed for ruminant livestock.

How to propagate a tree from seed?

To grow from seed, the thick coat must first be broken, most often by soaking in a pot of boiling water for 12 – 24 hours. Root cuttings can be taken by finding a good flare in the tree, and digging up roots at least thumb thickness. Roots are cut into 2” sections and planted in a potting mix or prepared seed bed.

Where do black locust trees grow?

This tree, which has often been given a bad name for it’s opportunistic rapid growth and robust thorns, is said to be native originally to the Appalachian Mountain range, though it has become naturalized throughout the United States, southern Canada, and even parts of Europe and Asia.

What Does A Locust Tree Look Like?

Black Locust Tree (Robinia Pseudoacacia). Because of its white flower, Black locust is a popular ornamental tree.

What are the problems with locust trees?

Problems with Locust Trees. In some areas, cankers and root collar rot are serious problems for honey locust trees. Cankers first appear as flattened or discolored surfaces on the branches and trunk of the tree. Over time, cankers can spread and completely girdle the tree, causing tree death.

What are the most common types of locust trees?

The most popular types of locust trees in North America are called black locust and honey locust. In this article you’ll find all you need to know about their uses, popular varieties and related planting processes.

What is a honey locust?

The honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) is a fast-growing tree. Honey locusts, or Gleditsia triacanthos, are part of the Gleditsia genus. They’re also referred to as ‘thorny honeylocust’ or ‘thorny locust’. The honey locust is a deciduous tree, meaning it tends to shed its leaves and flower petals.

How tall does a shademaster honey locust tree grow?

The Shademaster honey locust tree has no thorns and grows faster than most locust trees. Reaching heights of 50 feet and upwards. One advantage of growing Shademasters is that they don’t produce fruits. Meaning they’re easier to maintain than other locust trees.

Why are honey locusts important?

Honey locusts provide reliable wood used in building constructions and even furniture. Though its wood isn’t the main reason why it’s widely planted.

How tall is a locust tree?

This locust tree species can grow into a tree or a shrub and it reaches heights of about 10 feet with beautiful purple branches and flower batches that bloom in spring and summer.

Update: February 2019

If you are in the Northwest (or have heard the news) you know we had an insane amount of snow recently.

Update: June 2021

Our neighbor had the last locust cut down to a stump in late 2019, and we are STILL getting suckers popping up all over the yard, though there seems to be fewer of them (or maybe that’s wishful thinking?). I’m hoping the roots will be exhausted in the next 2 – 3 years.

How to treat black locust leaves?

Glyphosate (trade name Roundup) can be foliar-sprayed on black locust leaves as a control when trees are actively growing. For good control, all leaves on all shoots should be treated. Roundup should be applied by hand sprayer at a 0.5- to 1.5-percent solution (0.6 to 2 ounces of Roundup per gallon of clean water). Spray coverage should be uniform and complete. Do not spray so heavily that herbicide drips off the target species.

What is Tordon RTU?

Tordon RTU (picloram) is a premixed general use herbicide labeled for cut-surface applications only. This herbicide kills treated black locust stems, but vigorous sprouts develop from roots. Stump treatments that do not effectively control the tree's root system may necessitate several additional years of foliar treatment of root sprouts. Tordon RTU has high soil mobility and persistence, and is no longer labeled for use on sandy soils.

What is Garlon 3A?

Garlon 3A (a formulation of triclopyr) is a selective translocated herbicide that can be applied as a foliar or cut-surface treatment. Cut-surface treatment provides a high level of control of tree root systems, especially for suckering species such as black locust. Cut-surface application can be made during any season of the year, but application during the dormant season reduces the potential for drift injury. Undiluted or diluted Garlon 3A at a rate of 50-percent water can either be sprayed on the cut surface using a hand sprayer or else wiped on the cut surface using a sponge applicator (sponge-type paint applicators can be used). Either a stump or a girdle can be used for the cut surface. Girdles around the stem can be made quickly, using a chainsaw. Application should be within a few hours of cutting, adhering closely to label precautions and directions.

Why should foliar spray not be used?

Foliar spray of glyphosate should not be used in high quality areas because of problems with spraying non-target species. In general, foliar spray application of herbicides should not be used in high quality areas because of potential damage to non-target plants.

How to eliminate root sprouts and seed germination?

Bulldozing, piling, and burning of trees followed by cultivation and planting of soybeans effectively eliminated root sprouts and seed germination. Monitor dozed sites for sprouting from roots or seed germination and follow-up with mechanical or chemical treatment.

How to treat basal bark?

of Garlon 4 is added to one gallon of diesel fuel. Follow same directions as with Remedy. Great care should be exercised to avoid getting any of the mixtures on the ground near the target plant since some non-tar get species may be harmed. Diesel fuel may kill vegetation around the target tree. Avoid using triclopyr if rain is forecast for the following one to four days; otherwise runoff will harm non-target species.

Why is black locust difficult to control?

Black locust is difficult to control due to its rapid growth and clonal spread. Mowing and burning largely have proven only temporarily effective due to the tree's ability to spread vegetatively. As a result, management has concentrated on chemical control with variable success.

Physical Characteristics

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History of The Black Locust Tree

Reproduction

Human Uses

Varieties/Cultivares of Locust Trees