An incredibly useful tree native to the southeastern United States, Black Locust has multiple uses and has been valued by homesteaders for generations. Though it can be invasive in certain climates, and is prohibited in Massachusetts, it is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in nutrient poor soils, stabilizes erosion prone soils, provides habitat for wildlife, has rot resistant and amazingly hot burning wood, and its aromatic edible flowers. Additionally the nectar is a great source for pollinators - in good years black locust forests provide 50-60% of the nectar for total honey harvested in Hungary. Permaculturalists especially like this tree for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen thereby supporting adjacent plants. Black locust trees have spikes growing from the trunk and branches that can be quite sharp until they reach maturity.