Robinia pseudoacacia aka Black Locust

Taxonomy

Robinia pseudoacacia, also known as black locust or false acacia, is a medium-sized deciduous tree belonging to the legume family Fabaceae. Originally endemic to small areas of the United States, it has been widely planted and naturalized in various regions of temperate North America, Europe, Southern Africa, and Asia, although it is considered an invasive species in some places. This slow-growing tree has twisted stems and curly leaves, reaching heights of about 3m. The green leaves consist of multiple pairs of rounded leaflets that turn yellow during autumn. Robinia pseudoacacia is a vigorous suckering tree or shrub, sometimes thorny, with pinnate leaves and racemes of pea-like flowers that bloom in early summer. These flowers are followed by seed pods. The tree itself can grow up to 25m tall, with deeply furrowed rough bark and spines formed from stipules on twigs and suckers. Its dark green leaves are made up of 5-11 pairs of oval leaflets. In late spring and summer, dense clusters of slightly scented white flowers, around 15-20mm long with a yellow blotch at the base of the standard petal, appear. These flowers are then followed in autumn by hairless, linear to oblong pods containing 4-10 seeds.

Common names

Black Locust, False Acacia

How to care for Black Locust

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Black Locust is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Black Locust should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Black Locust loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Black Locust requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your False Acacia is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Black Locust should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Black Locust as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Black Locust’s native range is Eastern N. America - Appalachian and Ozark mountain ranges. Naturalized in Britain[17].


More info:
Wikipedia