About

Robinia pseudoacacia, commonly known as black locust, is a medium-sized hardwood deciduous tree, belonging to the tribe Robinieae of the legume family. Another common name is false acacia, a literal translation of the specific name (pseudo [Greek ψευδο-] meaning 'fake' or 'false' and acacia referring to the genus of plants with the same name).

Although fossilized traces of the genus were found in Europe, the species itself is native to a few small areas of the United States, but has been widely planted and naturalized elsewhere, including temperate North America, Eurasia, and Africa. It is considered an invasive species in some regions.

How to grow it

Black locust can be easily propagated from roots, softwood, or hardwood. Cultivars may be grafted, ensuring that parent and daughter plants will be genetically identical.

In Europe, it is often planted along streets and in parks, especially in large cities, because it tolerates pollution well.

Safety

The bark, leaves, and wood are toxic to both humans and livestock. Important constituents of the plant are the toxalbumin robin, which loses its toxicity when heated, and robinin, a nontoxic glucoside.

Horses that consume the plant show signs of anorexia, depression, incontinence, colic, weakness, and cardiac arrhythmia. Symptoms usually occur about 1 hour following consumption, and immediate veterinary attention is required.

Where it grows

The genus Robinia is native to North America, although traces of it are found in Eocene and Miocene rocks in Europe.

Other Robinia plants

New Mexico locust · Locust