Robinia hispida - Bristly locust

Robinia hispida, also known as bristly locust, belongs to the family of the legumes (Fabaceae). It is a multi -year, summer green plant that grows as a shrub or small tree. Originally native to the southeastern United States, it was introduced as an ornamental plant in many regions and has established itself in various climatic zones due to its decorative properties and robustness.

Morphology and appearance

Robinia hispida is a deciduous shrub that reaches a height of 1 to 3 metres. Its shoots are conspicuously shaggy-haired, which has earned the plant its name ‘hispida’ (Latin for ‘rough-haired’). This hairiness presumably serves as protection against predators and dehydration.

The leaves are feathered and consist of 7 to 13 elliptical to egg -shaped partial leaves. These are about 3 to 5 centimeters long, have a smooth or slightly serrated edge and a bluish-green color. The leaves are alternately arranged and carry pairs of secondary leaves at the bottom.

The flowers of Robinia hispida are a striking feature. They appear in grapes from May to June, which are 10 to 15 centimeters long. Each flower has a typical butterfly shape that is characteristic of the legumes. The color of the flowers varies from bright pink to violet tones, which means that it has a strong decorative value. The plant is rich in nectar and is often visited by bees and other pollares.

After flowering, elongated, flat legumes develop, which are about 5 to 10 centimeters long. These contain several hard, bean -shaped seeds that can be used for the multiplication.

Distribution and habitat

Robinia hispida is located in the southeastern USA, where it grows in open forests, on forest edges and on sandy, nutrient -poor soils. It prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and is adapted to different ground conditions as long as they are well permeable.

The plant is often cultivated as an ornamental wood in parks and gardens and also thrives in moderate climates. It is hardy and tolerates temperatures up to -20 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in many regions.

Ecological importance

As a member of the legumes, Robinia hispida has the ability to fix nitrogen from the air with a symbiosis with nodules in the soil. This improves soil fertility and supports the settlement of other plant species in nutrient -poor soils. In addition, through its nectar -rich flowers, the plant offers an important source of food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The dense hair and the growth of Robinia hispida also make you an effective ground cover that can protect against erosion. In some areas it is used to renaturate degraded country.

Use and care

Robinia hispida is primarily estimated as an ornamental treble. Your bright pink flowers and your compact growth make you a popular plant for gardens, discounts and smaller landscape designs. It is also used in natural gardens to attract pollinators.

The plant is easy to care for and tolerates dryness and various soil types. A regular pruning promotes the branch and receives the compact shape. However, Robinia hispida tends to form foothills, which should be taken into account in the cultivation. It is also suitable for pot culture, which makes it ideal for smaller gardens or terraces.

Due to its decorative properties, ecological importance and robustness, Robinia hispida remains an attractive choice for decorative and landscape design.