Honey Locust Sunburst Tree

Gleditsia Triacanthos Sunburst or Honey Locust Sunburst Tree
The Honey Locust Sunburst (Gleditsia triacanthos) is coveted by many gardeners over other locust trees because of its absence of messy fruit pods. A popular honey locust cultivar, in the mid-to late spring months the tree starts to produce eye-catching feathery yellow foliage which quickly turns to a soft, attractive greenish-yellow shade. The tree’s leaves are delicate and appear to flutter as the breeze catches them. Many people also enjoy the soft rustling sound of the tree’s lightweight foliage makes as the air flows around them.  The leaves are fernlike in appearance and very delicate with a fine texture. They measure up to 20 centimeters in length. 

During the summer months, the Honey Locust Sunburst tree does produce flowers but they are barely noticeable. However, the flowers do emit a subtle fragrance that attracts bees to the garden and many people enjoy its light sweet scent. 

Gleditsia Triacanthos Sunburst has a branching growth habit that is light and airy. The combination of dainty branches and feathery foliage helps create a dappled shade beneath the tree that many gardeners appreciate. The light shade allows grass and other garden plants to grow well underneath the tree.

Unlike other Honey Locust tree varieties, the Honey Locust Sunburst does not have thorns. It is a tough little tree that tolerates a wide range of soils and garden conditions. However, it grows best in soil that has a neutral pH balance. It flourishes well in full sun or partial shade, but prefers full sunlight for optimum autumn colours. The tree isn’t overly picky about soil and once established can withstand periods of drought. The Honey Locust Sunburst grows rapidly which makes it a popular tree choice. 

The Honey Locust Sunburst grows to a height of up to 12 meters. Its canopy width can also reach up to 12 meters. The tree’s branches grow in a very distinctive horizontal fashion which gives it a zig-zag look that is exceptionally unique compared to other trees. In the autumn, the tree’s compound leaves produce a brilliant yellow colour that is eye-catching and stands out in the landscape.