Black Locust
Robinia pseudoacacia · Fabaceae (Legume, pea, or bean family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound with oval leaflets), deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to oval leaflets, with a rounded or slightly notched tip and rounded base
Margin
Entire (smooth margins)
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem, with leaflets arranged in opposite pairs along the central rachis plus a terminal leaflet
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and fine, branching lateral veins
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves with oval leaflets ending in a small mucronate tip, paired thorns (stipules) at the nodes on young branches, rough deeply grooved dark bark, and drooping clusters of fragrant white flowers
Description
Black Locust is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its deeply furrowed, dark bark, fragrant pendulous clusters of white pea-like flowers in spring, and durable wood. The foliage consists of pinnately compound leaves that fold up at night. It is a pioneer species capable of fixing its own nitrogen, allowing it to colonize poor soils rapidly.
Habitat
Found in disturbed areas, forest edges, open woods, along roadsides, and abandoned fields; thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, highly adaptable
Native Range
Native to the eastern United States (Appalachian region and Ozarks), but widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia