Clammy Locust

robinia viscosa

Also known as: ["Viscous Locust","Sticky Locust"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Robinia Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree native to eastern North America, known for its fragrant pink or rose-purple flowers and sticky, glandular hairs on its stems and leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Robinia
Botanical Name: Robinia viscosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open spaces with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; stunted growth suggests poor soil fertility or compaction.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH before planting.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates winter cold but needs protection from late frosts.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat/cold spikes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; stop feeding in late summer.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible but mature.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).

Medium

Perlite and peat moss mix (1:1 ratio) with good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use morning-cuttings for better success; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning; heading back of overgrown branches; removal of dead/diseased wood.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant; remove dead or crossing branches; encourage airflow and light penetration.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead wood first; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure similar depth.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or aged manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed bud development in cold stress; leaf drop in sudden temperature shifts.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause dieback of tender shoots; reduces flowering potential.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; cover during late frosts.

Hot Stress

Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use reflective mulch to reduce soil heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially nitrogen-rich formulas.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Robinia viscosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Robinia viscosa can result from water stress, root damage, or disease, impairing the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Robinia viscosa are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and premature leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Robinia viscosa due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Robinia viscosa. The plant's compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological issues in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing Robinia viscosa. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The toxic compounds in Robinia viscosa can be harmful to dogs, causing gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The severity of effects may vary depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from Robinia viscosa. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Robinia viscosa, commonly known as Viscous Locust, contains toxic compounds such as rotenone and cytisine, which can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with the nervous system and can lead to severe symptoms, particularly in larger quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness weakness respiratory distress
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Robinia viscosa toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Robinia viscosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.

Q: What are common problems with Robinia viscosa?

A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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