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Sugar Maple (Hard Maple) vs Black Locust
Acer saccharum
Robinia pseudoacacia
Sugar Maple is a large, deciduous tree known for its brilliant fall yellow, orange, and red-orange color display.
This long-lived shade tree features unique "maple"
lobed leaves.
Note: this Zone 4 tree is unlikely to produce commercially viable sap on the prairies.
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.