black locust

Robinia pseudoacacia 'Tortuosa'

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia 'Tortuosa') is a deciduous, ornamental tree known for its twisted, branched trunk and a canopy of bright green foliage that casts a thick shade. It can grow up to a height of 30 feet and spread as wide as 25 feet, offering a perfect shade spot on hot days. Its wood is very resilient and durable, often used to craft benches, trellis, and other outdoor structures. The fragrant blooms make it an attractive nectar source for many pollinators. It is a fast-growing species that is widely adaptable to different temperatures, soils, and pH levels, although it prefers well-drained, loamy soils. Despite its shallow root system, it's a good choice for urban gardens, due to its impressive structure and lack of pesky pests.