The honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) is a true paradox: a tree with both fearsome thorns and sweet surprises, perfectly adapted to the rugged beauty of southwest Missouri. Standing tall amongst its Ozark kin, the “devil’s walking stick” offers a unique blend of resilience, adaptability, and unexpected benefits for both nature and humans. In this four-part blog series, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of this iconic tree, exploring its ecological significance, its potential landscaping value, and the expert care it needs to thrive.

Part 1: A Tough Cookie for the Ozarks

Southwest Missouri’s terrain throws a lot at its trees: scorching summers, harsh winters, and unpredictable bouts of drought and floods. The honey locust, however, takes it all in stride. Its deep taproot burrows deep into the earth, securing valuable moisture reserves, while its strong, flexible branches weather storms with impressive grace. But perhaps the most defining characteristic of the honey locust is its armor of thorns. These formidable spikes, reaching up to 3 inches in length, deter herbivores and protect the tree’s precious leaves and pods.

For tree service professionals, this natural defense system presents both challenges and opportunities. Pruning a honey locust requires specialized equipment and a deep understanding of its growth patterns to navigate the thorny branches safely and effectively. Yet, proper pruning can unlock the tree’s full potential, shaping it into a magnificent specimen that adds value and character to any landscape.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore the surprising sweetness hidden within the honey locust’s prickly exterior!