New Mexico Locust, Rusby's locust, Locust

Robinia neomexicana

Physical Characteristics

Robinia neomexicana is a deciduous Tree growing to 2 m (6ft 7in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

South-western N. America - Texas to New Mexico, Utah and Nevada.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Seed Seedpod Edible Uses: Flowers - raw or cooked[105, 155, 161, 183, 257]. They can be used as a flavouring in cooked dishes[257]. The flowers can be boiled, then dried and stored for later use[257]. Seedpods - raw or cooked[229, 257]. They are gathered in the fall and eaten when fresh[229]. The pods can also be cooked then dried and stored for later use[257]. Seed - cooked[229, 257].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Emetic Antirheumatic[149, 216]. An emetic, it is used to clear the stomach[216, 257].

Known Hazards

The bark, root and seed are said to be poisonous[155].