The Black Locust tree has always been a somewhat exotic tree for me as they are not
native to Northern Michigan. I had not crossed paths with the tree in my early
years growing up in Lansing. The tree is native to a few select places in the
Appalachian mountains and the Ozark mountains. The Black Locust now has a
worldwide range and is considered an invasive species in most areas of the
United States.
Black Locust is in the same sub family as the edible pea. Notice that the flowers
are similar and the seed pods are also similar to the pea. And also like peas the
Black Locust tree is also a nitrogen fixer for the soil and is widely planted for
reclamation projects in mining operations. Speaking of the flowers, it is said that
locust honey is known for its unusual flavor. I learned a big lesson one spring
when I parked my old convertible under our locust with the top down at the end of
the flowering period. Thousands of the flower petals filled my car with the nicest
white coating. Luckily I had my leaf blower handy.
The Black Locust can root sprout easily especially when the tree has been
damaged. It also will easily sprout from seed up to 40 meters from the parent
tree. I have been watching one growing on my neighbors porch roof. I will post a
yearly photo of its progress.
Thorns. The most distinct feature of the Black Locust. When we package up the
locust to ship, leather gloves are a must. The thorns are just slightly less pokie
than roses but are larger and woodier. While mowing the grass at the cottage
one summer a thorn went right through my Crocks and into my foot. (ouch) I
know, don’t wear crocks while mowing. I have since switched back to boots,
thanks black locust tree!
The wood of locust is very hard and rot resistant. The density of Black Locust is
about 48# per cubic foot which makes it just about the hardest wood in North
America. My wintertime favorite to burn in my tiny house is Ironwood which is
about the only wood harder than locust at 50# per Cubic Foot. Fence posts out of
Black Locust are very rot resistant and if you can’t grow White Cedar then locust
may be your best bet.
Pests are not much of a problem for locust trees so that won’t be much of a
concern if you are thinking of planting a batch.
Happy growing! Pat
Purchase Black Locust here.
For more information, check out the Cornell University Small Farms article. Black Locust: A Tree with Many Uses – Cornell Small Farms
