An incredibly useful tree native to the southeastern United States, Honey Locust has multiple uses and has been valued by homesteaders for generations. It is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in nutrient poor soils, stabilizes erosion prone soils, provides habitat for wildlife, and has rot resistant and amazingly hot burning wood. Additionally the nectar is a great source for pollinators. Permaculturalists especially like this tree for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen thereby supporting adjacent plants. Additionally honey locusts create large seed pods which make it a popular option for silvopasture systems. These seedlings come from a mother tree with minimal thorns.
Honey Locust
Latin Name: Gleditsia triacanthos
Site and Soil: Widely adapted
Hardiness: Hardy to -40° F.
Size at Maturity: 40-60+ ft. in height
Bloom Time: Spring
Pests & Diseases: None
USDA Zone: 3-8