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 contain a tangy, sweet paste, like a North American version of Tamarind.
50'. Full Sun. Dry to Medium Soil. White Bloom May-June.
These seeds were produced by our friends at Ernst Conservation Seeds in Meadville, PA.
Growing Tips: No cold Stratification required, but Scarification greatly helps germination rate. Soak seeds in hot water for 24hrs before planting time, let them swell to 3x their original size. Or Fall seed, to let the Winter weather break down the seed coating.
