'Purple Robe' Locust

Plant Height: 30-40 feet
Spread: 20-30 feet
Flower Color: purple-pink
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

The Purple Robe Locust, scientifically named Robinia pseudoacacia 'Purple Robe', is a highly ornamental variety of the Black Locust tree. It is celebrated for its stunning, deep purple-pink flowers that bloom profusely in late spring, providing a dramatic and beautiful display. The flowers are not only visually appealing but also emit a sweet fragrance, attracting bees and other pollinators.

Growing to about 30 to 40 feet in height with a spread of 20 to 30 feet, the Purple Robe Locust has a fast growth rate and forms an upright, spreading canopy. The tree's foliage consists of bright green, pinnate leaves that turn yellow in the fall, adding seasonal interest to the landscape.

Adapted to full sun, the Purple Robe Locust thrives in well-draining soil and is highly tolerant of drought, pollution, and a variety of soil types, including poor soils. This makes it a versatile choice for urban and suburban landscapes, as well as reclamation projects.

In landscaping, the Purple Robe Locust is often used as a specimen tree due to its ornamental flowers and attractive foliage. It can also be used in parks, along streets, and in residential settings where its compact size and tolerance of urban conditions are beneficial.

While the Purple Robe Locust is highly valued for its aesthetic qualities, it is important to note that the tree can be prone to suckering, and its wood is somewhat brittle, which may result in limb damage during severe weather. Additionally, like other members of the Robinia genus, it is considered invasive in some areas.

Overall, the Purple Robe Locust is a striking and fast-growing tree that adds color, fragrance, and beauty to the landscape. Its adaptability to harsh growing conditions and low maintenance requirements make it a favored choice for gardeners and landscape designers looking for an impactful and sustainable addition to their projects.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): 'Purple Robe' Locust

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily)
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil; tolerates clay soils but prefers loamy or sandy soil
• Spacing: Space plants 15-20 feet apart for mature size and good air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No staking required unless young trees need extra support in windy areas

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, depending on weather conditions
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session to ensure deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: The 'Purple Robe' Locust is considered established after 4-6 months, once the roots have spread and the tree is growing consistently

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water deeply every 7-10 days during the hotter months. Increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days during prolonged heat waves. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks, depending on rainfall. During the dormant period, reduce watering to prevent overwatering.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check soil moisture regularly. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: Ensure the soil drains well and avoid excessive moisture around the roots.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and reduce weed competition.