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Description
Robinia Hispida, commonly known as the bristly locust or rose acacia, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It belongs to the pea family and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The plant has a bushy habit and produces beautiful pink flowers in mid-summer. These flowers give way to seed pods that are up to 4 inches long and persist into winter. The foliage is dark green and compound, consisting of 7 to 21 leaflets that have a soft, hairy texture. The stems and branches are covered in sharp, thorny spines.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Robinia |
Appearance
The bristly locust is a striking plant with pink, pea-like flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are arranged in clusters that can be up to 8 inches long. The seed pods that follow are green and covered in bristles. As they mature, they turn brown and become woody. The leaves are compound and composed of oval-shaped leaflets that are green on top and slightly hairy underneath. The stems and branches are covered in sharp, thorny spines that can make pruning a challenge. The plant has an upright, spreading habit and can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Care Guide
The bristly locust is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or peat moss.
- Sunlight: The bristly locust prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The bristly locust is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by:
- Aphids: These small, green insects can damage the leaves and flowers. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Spray the plant with a miticide to control them.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause dieback and cankers on the stems. Prune affected branches and spray the plant with a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
The bristly locust is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is tolerant of drought and can grow in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the bristly locust a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, the bristly locust is a fast-growing plant that can reach its mature size in just a few years.
Q: Does the plant require pruning?
A: Yes, the bristly locust can benefit from pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Q: Can the plant grow in containers?
A: While the bristly locust prefers to grow in the ground, it can be grown in large containers if provided with adequate space and moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
Related Plants
- Robinia Pseudoacacia (Black Locust)
- Robinia Viscosa (Clammy Locust)
- Robinia Neomexicana (New Mexico Locust)
References
- “Robinia hispida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282919. Accessed 12 Sept. 2021.
- “Bristly Locust.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/bristly-locust. Accessed 12 Sept. 2021.
- “Robinia hispida – Bristly Locust.” University of Connecticut Plant Database, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/58391/. Accessed 12 Sept. 2021.
