About
A deciduous tree or large shrub, with an open, rounded habit to 10m high. Produces long clusters of scented, pale lilac-pink flowers in late spring, followed by long brown seed pods. Leaves are dark green and pinnate, made up of up to 19 leaflets.
About the genus
Robinia are vigorous suckering trees and shrubs, sometimes thorny, with pinnate leaves and racemes of pea-type flowers in early summer, sometimes followed by seed pods
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationPrefers moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, but will tolerate poor, dry soils. Choose a spot that is sheltered from strong winds, as branches are brittle.
PruningPruning group 1; prune in late summer or early autumn to prevent bleeding
PropagationPropagate by division, removing suckers in autumn, or by root cuttings or grafting in winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus