identification guide florida tree identification by leaf

#Identification guide florida tree identification by leaf full

The spiky trunk is one reason why the tree is also called the “thorny” locust. The sharp barbs usually grow to 4” (10 cm) long, but they can be up to 8” (20 cm). Unlike the black locust, the honey locust tree trunk has thorny branches growing around it. Honey locust trees grow to between 66 and 100 ft. Similar to the black locust tree, this genus is native to states such as Pennsylvania, Iowa, Texas, and Georgia.

#Identification guide florida tree identification by leaf full

Just like the black locust, the species of honey locust grows in many different environments and thrives in full sun. The honey locust tree is a hardy, fast-growing tree, similar to the black locust tree. Compared to honey locust trees, black locust tree leaves are a darker green color. The small oval or ovoid leaflets on each leaf are about the size of your thumbprint. The leaves on black locust trees are pinnately compound and grow to about 10” (25 cm) long. The black locust tree flowers are rich in nectar, making this a beautiful honey plant. The large drooping flowers can measure between 4” and 8” (10 – 20 cm) and form attractive clusters. The flower color helps to tell black locusts apart from honey locust trees that have creamy-green colored flowers. Some species produce pink or purple flowers. Black locust tree flowersīlack locust trees bloom in late spring with intensely fragrant white flowers. The bark, seed pods, branches, and leaves are considered to be toxic.

Different to honey locust trees, the sharp spikes are short and don’t grow in long branches around the tree. The sharp spines on black locusts are usually present on immature trees and grow at the base of each leaf. (12 – 30 m) with exceptional varieties reaching heights of 171 ft. The black locust tree is also called “False Acacia,” “Fragrant White Locust,” and “Common Robinia.” It is native to states such as Pennsylvania, Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, and southern Ohio.īlack locust trees grow to between 40 and 100 ft. Similar to the honey locust, the black locust tree can withstand poor soil, drought, and damp growing environments. The black locust is a deciduous, hard-wooded tree that grows well in sunny locations. Looking at pictures of locust tree leaves, you will notice they are similar to fern leaves. The tree leaves are bipinnately compound meaning that smaller leaf branches grow off the main leaf stem. The leaflets are 0.6” to 1” (1.5 – 2.5 cm) and are arranged alternately on the leaf stem. In the fall, the green leaves turn to a stunning bright yellow color. The tree leaves have dark-green or light green color, depending on the species. The leaves on locust trees are feather-like and pinnately shaped and measure 6” to 14” (15 – 36 cm). Locust trees grow to between 66 and 98 ft. Another way to identify the type of locust tree is by the shape and color of its seed pods. Identifying species of locust trees can be done by features such as their flowers, color of bark, height of the tree, and the thorns. Pictures, descriptions, and their scientific names will help identify each species of these deciduous trees. In this article, you will learn about the different types of locust trees. For example, the black locust tree contains toxic compounds while the pods from the honey locust tree are edible. It is important to identify species of locust trees as some varieties are toxic. The sweet-smelling flowers are also a source of nectar for honey bees. The name “honey” comes from the fact that honey locust trees have pods with sweet taste. Black locust trees are in the Robinia genus, while honey locust trees are in the Gleditsia genus. The species of locust trees are divided into two genera: Robinia and Gleditsia. Most types of locust trees grow in the eastern states of North America. Compared to honey locust timber, black locust wood is more common. Locust tree lumber is exceptionally durable and the timber is excellent for making furniture, fence posts, flooring, and small boats. Locust trees can live for over a hundred years, and the wood is one of the hardest woods from any deciduous tree. Many varieties of locust trees have long sharp thorns and there are a few thornless species. Locust trees are hardy trees that are known for their hard and durable wood, fragrant sweet spring flowers, and colorful fall foliage. The most common types of locust trees are the black locust and honey locust tree. Locust trees are fast-growing flowering trees that belong to a family of flowering plants called Fabaceae. Share on Email Share on Pinterest Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn