Black Locust
Scientific Name: Robinia pseudoacacia
Overview
Black Locust is one of the most durable hardwoods native to North America. Found primarily in the eastern United States, it is known for its exceptional rot resistance and strength.
Black Locust has historically been used in fence posts, shipbuilding, and outdoor structures due to its natural resistance to decay without chemical treatment.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Black Locust
- Scientific Name: Robinia pseudoacacia
- Region: North American Hardwoods (Eastern United States)
- Tree Size: 40–80 ft tall, 1–3 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 48 lbs/ft³ (770 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,700 lbf
- Color: Yellowish brown to olive brown, darkening with age
- Grain: Generally straight
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Black Locust is best identified by its yellowish to medium brown heartwood and ring-porous structure. Earlywood pores are large and form distinct growth rings.
The grain is usually straight but may show slight irregularity. The wood is dense and heavy for its size.
Key identification traits include:
- Yellow-brown coloration
- Prominent growth rings
- Large earlywood pores
- Very dense and heavy feel
Working Properties
Black Locust is strong but can be challenging to machine due to its hardness.
- Difficult to machine with dull tools
- Excellent durability
- High shock resistance
- Glues and finishes adequately
- Can be prone to splitting during fastening
Pre-drilling is recommended when fastening.
Safety Note
Black Locust dust may cause irritation in some individuals. Standard dust protection is recommended.
Common Uses
Black Locust is commonly used in:
- Fence posts
- Decking
- Outdoor furniture
- Boatbuilding
- Railroad ties
- Structural beams
Sustainability & Notes
Black Locust grows relatively quickly and is often considered a sustainable species. It is also planted in some regions for erosion control and reclamation projects.
Its natural durability makes it a strong alternative to chemically treated lumber.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Osage Orange – Another extremely durable North American hardwood known for its exceptional rot resistance and strength, often used for fence posts and outdoor applications.
Hackberry – A moderately strong North American hardwood used in furniture and utility applications, though it is generally softer and significantly less decay-resistant than Black Locust.
White Oak – A strong and durable hardwood widely used in furniture, flooring, and outdoor projects due to its good resistance to moisture and decay.
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
Grain structure and pore patterns help distinguish durable hardwoods used in structural and outdoor applications.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability
Proper drying and moisture control help maintain stability and prevent movement in hardwood lumber.
Sapwood vs. Heartwood Explained
Explore Sapwood vs. Heartwood Explained to understand why this species can develop noticeable differences between its lighter outer wood and mature heartwood.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Clear, wide boards are less common than smaller dimension lumber due to traditional outdoor use.
Black Locust’s natural durability makes reclaimed material desirable for specialty projects.
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When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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