1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Forestry

Reconsider Planting Black Locust in Your Yard

By Steve Nix, About.com

Black Locust:


Robinia pseudoacacia

Why You Should Not Plant Black Locust!:

Black locust is not recommended for planting in your yard. The tree is a prolific sprouter as well as a free seeder. The tree is considered a thorny weed tree by many horticulturists and has escaped cultivation to invade pastures and prairies. It is considered an invasive species.
Robinia pseudoacacia is susceptible to locust borer. This insect damage can lead to damaged fences, roofs and automobiles and will lead to the tree's early death.

Redeeming Features:


*Black locust is one of the most beautiful, fastest growing and hardy trees in the landscape.
*Black locust establishes quickly on infertile soil.

"More Bad Trees"

More Info on Black Locust:


Identifying black locust or Robinia pseudoacacia

Explore Forestry

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Forestry
  4. Plant Tree Seedlings
  5. Tree Planting
  6. Reconsider Planting Black Locust in Your Yard>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.