Robinia pseudoacacia (Black Locust)
Black Locust is a mid sized native tree usually reaching 30-50 feet in height. In the wild it is usually a pioneer species, thriving in abandoned fields, farms, and roadsides. Black Locust forms colonies through seed and root suckers. However, when planted alone, it can be an attractive shade tree. Just be careful of the small thorns!
Extremely fragrant pendulous white flowers cover Black Locust trees in the late spring. Flowers at an early age. Brown seed pods mature in October and persist through the fall and early winter.
Black Locust is extremely hardy and will survive where other plants cannot tolerate the conditions. Transplants very easily. Once established will grow on just about any soil except constantly moist ground. Full sun/part shade.