Black locust trees are fast-growing with an open habit, prominent thorns when young, and deeply furrowed bark when mature. Their fragrant white pea-like flowers attract honey bees, who make an aromatic honey from the pollen.
Latin Name
Robinia pseudoacacia
Family
Fabaceae
Also Known As
False Acacia
Type of Plant
Trees
Bloom Season
May - June
Seasons
Spring
Specifications
Max Height: 80'
Max Spread: 35'
Uses
Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun
Tolerances
Toxicity
Do not ingest
Colors
Native Range
Eastern and central United States
History
Black locust has historically been a valuable source of wood for fence posts, due to their rot-resistance. Washington planted a grove of locust on the north end of the mansion.
Other Details
Pollinator
Hardiness Zones
Average annual extreme minimum temperature 1976-2005
Bartlett Tree Expert Company has been working with Mount Vernon Estate since 2011 providing expert arboricultural care and GPS mapping for the estate’s historic trees, as well as support from their research facility. Mount Vernon is proud to partner with Bartlett Tree Experts and appreciates their sponsorship of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Plant Finder App.
Bring Washington's Garden Home
Purchase our historic seeds, collected from plants grown at Mount Vernon and plant them in your own garden.
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