The Locust Family

black-locustBlack Locust

Scientific Name: Robinia pseudoacacia
Location: Central-eastern United States
Dried Weight: 48lbs/ft3
Janka Hardness: 700lbf
Crushing Strength: 6,500lbf /in2

Black Locust ranges in color from a pale greenish-yellow to a darker brown color. It tends to darken to a russet brown with age. The grain is straight and it has a medium texture. The end grain is ring-porous. Black Locust is rated as very durable in regards to decay. It can be difficult to work with on account of its density and moderate blunting effect. The wood is great for turning and steam bending. It also glues and finishes well.

 

honey-locust-gwHoney Locust

Scientific Name: Gleditsia triacanthos
Location: South-central and eastern United States
Dried Weight: 47lbs/ft3
Janka Hardness: 1,580lbf
Crushing Strength: 7,500lbf /in2

Honey Locust has a heartwood that is a medium to light reddish brown and a wide sapwood that is light yellow. The grain is straight or slightly irregular and it has a medium uneven texture. The wood gives off a moderate natural lustre. The end grain is ring-porous. Honey Locust is rated as moderately durable to durable in regards to decay. It is difficult to work with on account of its density. The wood turns, glues, stains, and finishes well.