Honey Locust

Honey locust (Latin: Gleditsia) is a genus of trees in the legume family. The genus comprises 15 species. Honey locust is considered native to Asia, Africa, and North America.

The genus was named after the German physician and botanist Gottlieb Gleditsch. Currently, the crop is cultivated in many parts of the world, including Russia.

Common Species and Their Characteristics

*Honey locust, or common honey locust (Latin: Gleditsia triacanthos), is a fast-growing tree up to 25 m tall with an asymmetrical, spreading crown reaching 8-10 m in diameter. With age, the crown takes on an umbrella-shaped form. The trunk is covered with narrow, peeling scales over its entire surface. The bark is black or dark brown. The shoots are slightly curved, reddish-brown when young, and become grayish or olive-brown with age. Branched or simple spines form on the tree branches as they grow.

*Caspian Honey Locust (Latin: Gleditsia caspica) is a species of small trees or tall shrubs covered with numerous branched spines, varying in length from 15 to 20 cm. The leaves are large, pinnate, and consist of 12-20 leaflets. The flowers are greenish, gathered in racemose inflorescences. The fruit is a pod. In appearance, the species is similar to Japanese Honey Locust. *Japanese honey locust, or Gleditsia japonica, is a deciduous tree species growing up to 25 m tall. The branches and trunk bear rather strong spines up to 25-30 cm long. The leaves are dark green, paripinnate, and alternate, consisting of 10-24 pairs of lanceolate or oblong-ovate leaflets. The flowers are small, yellowish-green, and fragrant, gathered in dense racemes that form from the leaf axils.

Growing Conditions

Gleditsia is an undemanding plant and tolerates any location. It is undemanding regarding soil conditions, and thrives in saline, clay, sandy, loamy, acidic, and alkaline soils. The plants are characterized by increased drought and frost resistance. A sunny or semi-shaded location is preferred.

Reproduction

Honey locusts are propagated primarily by seed. Seeds remain viable for 2-3 years. Sow seeds either in early spring or in the fall under cover. Pre-soak the seeds in warm water. When the seedlings develop 2-3 true leaves, transplant them into separate containers. Young plants are planted in their permanent locations after 2-3 years. Honey locusts are often propagated by root suckers and stump shoots. Ornamental forms can also be propagated by grafting.

Use

Honey locusts have enhanced ornamental qualities. They are ideal for landscaping parks, gardens, alleys, and squares. They are ideal for creating hedges and shelterbelts. Honey locusts are an excellent honey plant and also possess a number of medicinal properties. The wood of this plant is used as a building material. Gleditsia fruits are sweet and fleshy, suitable for livestock. They are also used as a coffee substitute. They are equally valuable in folk medicine. They are rich in vitamins, mucilaginous and tannin substances, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Leaf decoctions are beneficial for chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gallbladder inflammation.

Gleditsia triacanthus

Gleditsia gleditsia