Korean Honey Locust

Gleditsia koraiensis

Physical Characteristics

Gleditsia koraiensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft 7in). It is in leaf from June to October, in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

E. Asia - Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seedpod Edible Uses: The flesh inside the mature seedpod can be eaten[177].

Medicinal Uses

Abortifacient Antiinflammatory Expectorant Stomachic The fruit and the spines contain a number of medically active constituents including saponins and flavonoids[279]. They are anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and expectorant, and have shown anti-HIV activity[279]. They are used in Korea in the treatment of coughs, constipation and liver diseases[279]. They should not be used by pregnant women since they have a stimulant effect upon the uterus and could induce a miscarriage[279].

Known Hazards

None known