Bebbs Willow vs Black Locust - TreeTime.ca

Bebbs Willow vs Black Locust

Salix bebbiana

Robinia pseudoacacia

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

Bebbs Willow
Black Locust

This large shrub is native to all of Canada and most of the United States. Its leaves are green on the top and grey on the bottom, and it produces catkin based flowers and non-edible fruit which appears very similar to a group of pine needles.

Bebb's Willow is foraged for by many species including elk, hares, beavers and various birds. It is commonly used to prevent erosion and protect aquatic environments due to its preference for shady, moist environments.

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.

Bebbs Willow Quick Facts

Black Locust Quick Facts

Zone: 1a
Zone: 3a
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: high


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


Other Names: beak willow, diamond willow, livid willow, long-beaked willow, smooth bebb willow, smooth gray willow
Other Names: false acacia, yellow locust