Robinia pseudoacacia — Black Locust
Family: Fabaceae – A legume family known for natural soil enrichment through nitrogen fixation.
Height: 12–30 meters; fast-growing tree with a loose, upright form.
Foliage: Deciduous with feathery, compound leaves; fresh green in spring, golden in autumn.
Fruition: Produces flat, brown seed pods in summer; pods persist into winter.
Soil: Adapts to most soil types but prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soils. Excellent for poor soil restoration.
pH Value: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.0–8.0)
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established.
Temperature: Thrives in Lahore’s heat and handles winter chills well (down to -20°C).
Hardiness Zone (USA): USDA Zones 4–8
Propagation: Propagates easily through seeds and root suckers. Can naturalize quickly if unchecked.
Pesticides: Generally pest-resistant. Watch for aphids and borers—control with neem spray or pruning.
Fertilizers: Rarely needed due to nitrogen-fixing roots; compost in early spring boosts health if needed.
Flowering Period (Lahore/Punjab): April to May; drapes in cascading white, fragrant flowers that attract all the attention.
Attractiveness to Wildlife: A pollinator magnet—bees, butterflies, and songbirds love it!
