The thornless honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos inermis) can grow in the poorest soils. Belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae), it produces decorative pods that hang for a long time, and the pulp surrounding the seeds is crunchy and so sweet that it was the primary source of sugar produced in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. The roasted seeds serve as a coffee substitute.

Its finely divided leaves turn pale yellow in the fall, shedding and seamlessly integrating into the soil, sparing you the task of raking. Their fall helps support the soil’s microbial activity as well as your gardening efforts. The light shade it provides is not overly restrictive.

It tolerates pollution and prefers light, well-drained soils. It also survives short-term flooding.

The thornless honey locust is well known for its tolerance to pollution and drought. This has contributed to its popularity in urban environments, with its leaves causing no disturbance when they fall in autumn.