Tree Identification: Honey Locust

The honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) tree has a rather unmistakeable trunk which is absolutely covered in clumps of long thorns.

The locusts are members of the pea family and produce a pod similar in appearance to a peapod but longer and brown. It is the sweet legume pulp which gives the tree the "honey" moniker. The legumes and pods are used to feed cattle and pigs in some areas.

Whenver I find a honey locust tree I harvest a couple of the thorns for use in fishing spears, traps, or other holding devices. They're easy enough to harvest, taking a couple will do no harm to the tree, and they're plenty strong to use both green and dry. I have even used a honey locust thorn to repair a tear in one of my shirts--they make excellent needles.

More information here

Thanks for reading,


B