Northern Pin Oak vs Black Locust - TreeTime.ca

Northern Pin Oak vs Black Locust

Robinia pseudoacacia

Quercus ellipsoidalis

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Black Locust
Northern Pin Oak

Black Locust is an attractive tree. Its distinctive leaves are made of about a dozen bright green leaflets. It also notable for its fragrant white flowers, which smell of citrus.

Black Locust can grow in many situations, but prefers dry areas with lots of sun. It is robust and is an excellent choice for establishing shade in dry, open areas.

Important note: Much of the Black Locust is toxic to humans and livestock, including seeds, bark, and leaves.

Northern Pin oak has an attractive but irregular rounded crown with lower hanging branches. This species is one of the few oak species recommended for the prairies and colder areas. Northern Pin Oak prefers drier habitats.

The spectacular fall leaf color of this tree is the primary reason for its popularity. Fall leaves turn orange and red to reddish brown.

Squirrels, jays, deer, and similar animals love its acorns.

Note: Most Oak species can be considered toxic for many animals.

Black Locust Quick Facts

Northern Pin Oak Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 14 m (45 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: none


Bark: dark reddish brown to balck with furrows
Flowers: Creamy white flowers in a pyramidal shape bloom in may-june
Nuts: acorns
Seeds: dark brown peapod-like pods
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Other Names: false acacia, yellow locust
Other Names: hills oak, jack oak, upland pin oak