Black Locust
Robinia pseudoacacia · Fabaceae (Legume, pea, or bean family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound, deciduous
Shape
Oblong to elliptic individual leaflets with a rounded or notched apex
Margin
Entire (smooth margins without teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement of compound leaves on the twig; individual leaflets are arranged oppositely or sub-oppositely along the rachis
Venation
Pinnate venation on individual leaflets with a prominent central midrib and fine secondary branching
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves with oval leaflets featuring smooth margins, paired sharp stipular spines at the nodes on twigs, and heavily furrowed rope-like bark on mature trees
Description
The Black Locust is a medium to large deciduous tree recognized for its deeply furrowed dark bark, fragrant cascading white flowers in spring, and pinnately compound leaves that turn a striking golden yellow in autumn. It grows rapidly and often forms dense thickets through root suckers.
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed soils, along forest edges, abandoned fields, and roadsides; highly adaptable to various soil types and moisture levels
Native Range
Native to the southeastern United States, but widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia