Residents > Parks & Forestry > Public Tree Map

Locust

Locust trees are a low maintenance, strong tree that is well suited to the urban setting. Generally without thorns, there are some forms that grow thorns up to 12" long. Fern like green compound leaves grow in 8-14 leaftlets are are the last to emerge in spring. Long, smooth, ovals in shape, the leaf is a dull green with a pale underside that fold or curl in rain/nighttime. The leaves turn a pale yellow in fall.

Flower/Fruit

• White petals with a single green blotch grow in after the leaves. The pea-like flowers bloom in large clusters that hang upt to 15 cm long.
• Hosts reddish-brown pods that hand in clusters which contain four to eight dark brown seeds which remain through winter.

Environment

Full sun for most of the day is ideal. Moist, sandy and well-drained soil is best for growth.