Golden locust (Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia') roe-BIN-ee-ah soo-dah-KAY-see-ah Genus:  Robinia

This large, fast-growing tree has droopy leaves that stay sunny yellow from spring until frost, spiny shoots, and fragrant white flowers in late spring and early summer on pendent racemes. The flowers are followed by smooth brown seed pods that are also interesting. 'Frisia' is one of the cultivars that is grown more for foliage than for its flowers and it does not flower as freely as the species.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Fast-growing. Good foliage color over a long period.

Care: 

Golden locust likes full sun in fertile, moist soil, but it will tolerate poor, dry soils. It has brittle branches, so it needs shelter from strong winds. Prune in late summer or early fall.

Propagation: 

In autumn, sow seed in a cold frame or remove suckers. Insert root cuttings or graft in winter

Problems: 

Borers, caterpillars, weevils, scale insects, whiteflies, leaf miners, leaf spots, wood rot, canker, powdery mildew, heart rot, and Verticillium wilt can be troublesome. Suckers may be a problem.

Overview

Height Over 30 ft. Spread Over 30 ft. Growth Habit Runs Growth Pace Fast Grower, Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Fragrant Flowers, Native, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer Flower Color White Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Specimen Plant/Focal Point Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Trees