Gleditsia triacanthos
,
Deciduous
Honeylocust is a very tough and adaptable tree that is native to
woodlands, pastures and fence lines of the eastern Great Plains. Thornless and fruitless varieties have been developed by the
horticultural industry and are used extensively in landscaping. The trees are very hardy and are often used in parking lot islands and
along sidewalks.
Where To Grow
Honeylocust is amazingly tolerant of poor soils and restricted root zones making it one of the most common trees planted in downtowns
and other paved areas.
Suitable to plant throughout the state.
Size at Maturity
Tree Height
Tree Spread
50-70'
50-60'
Wildlife Benefits
Honey locust is used extensively by wildlife. The bean pods are a favorite food of the white-tailed deer, squirrels, rabbits, hogs,
opossums, and raccoons. Domestic animals such as sheep, goats, and cattle will also forage on the honey locust bean pods. Browsing and
grazing animals, such as deer, cattle, and sheep utilize the tender shoots in spring and the bark of young trees in winter. Honey locust
is capable of forming dense thickets of thorny vegetation which provides excellent cover for a wide variety of game animals and
birds. Flowers of this species are incredibly attractive to pollinating insects.
Additional Considerations
Some of the best varieties for our part of the world include
‘Northern Acclaim’, ‘Imperial’, ‘Moraine’, ‘Shademaster’ and ‘Skyline’. Honeylocust plant bugs, spider mites, leafhoppers and other insects can
cause significant leaf damage in severe years. Such problems are usually cosmetic and don’t warrant insecticide
treatment.
Interesting Facts
Its specific epithet triacanthos is Greek and means “three-branched thorn”.
Large honeylocusts in Nebraska reach up to 90 feet tall and more
than 60 feet wide.
Additional Images
