hybrid locust

Robinia margarettiae

Native to:
United States

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Robinia
Species:
Robinia margarettiae
USDA Symbol:
ROMA

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
900 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun
Bloom Colors:
pink, white

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies, birds
Fragrant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Robinia margarettiae is adapted to fire-prone sandhill habitats; it can resprout after fire and benefits from periodic burns to reduce competition.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers open, sunny locations

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy.