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Description
Gleditsia Aquatica, also known as the swamp locust or water locust, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 80 feet tall. The bark is gray and has deep furrows, while the leaves are pinnately compound and can grow up to 18 inches long. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring, followed by brown, flattened seed pods that can be up to 18 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Gleditsia |
Appearance
Gleditsia Aquatica has a distinctive appearance with its large, pinnately compound leaves and flattened seed pods. The leaves are green and can grow up to 18 inches long, with each leaflet being about 1-2 inches long. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring, followed by brown, flattened seed pods that can be up to 18 inches long. The bark is gray and has deep furrows, giving the tree a rough texture.
Care Guide
Gleditsia Aquatica is a hardy tree that can tolerate a range of soil types, including wet soils. It requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth, to establish a strong root system. The tree prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Fertilize the tree annually in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Gleditsia Aquatica is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gleditsia Aquatica is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to borers, scale insects, and webworms. Pests can be controlled with insecticides or by removing infected branches. The tree can also be affected by root rot if planted in poorly drained soils.
Habitat
Gleditsia Aquatica is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wetlands, swamps, and along rivers and streams. It is commonly found in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gleditsia Aquatica a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Gleditsia Aquatica is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 feet per year.
Q: When is the best time to prune Gleditsia Aquatica?
A: The best time to prune Gleditsia Aquatica is in the winter when the tree is dormant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Gleditsia Aquatica?
A: Fertilize Gleditsia Aquatica once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Gleditsia Aquatica tolerate wet soils?
A: Yes, Gleditsia Aquatica can tolerate wet soils and is commonly found in wetlands and swamps.
Related Plants
- Gleditsia Triacanthos – Honey Locust
- Gleditsia Macracantha – Osage Orange
- Gleditsia Japonica – Japanese Honey Locust
References
- Bonner, F. T. (2012). Gleditsia aquatica. Flora of North America North of Mexico, 7, 94-96.
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Gleditsia aquatica. (n.d.). United States Department of Agriculture. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GLAQ
