Robinia x ambigua 'Idahoensis' Idaho Locust
This mature, multi-stemmed Idaho locust welcomes you at the entry to Basalt’s Lake Christine. A stately tree and member of the pea family features bluish, fern-like, leaves made up of rounded oval leaflets turning yellow in autumn. Foliage casts dappled shade creating pleasing silhouettes on the landscape. In late spring pendulous clusters of 6-8" pink blossoms hang gracefully from the new branches. Their sweet fragrance attracts insect pollinators while the bright pink flowers appeal to hummingbirds. Blooms in late May to early June. Idaho locust requires full sun and is drought tolerant once established. Tolerant of heat, wind and poor soils. Fruit is a 4” long pod which makes fun holiday ornaments when spray painted silver or gold. The handsome and deeply furrowed bark adds interesting texture to the landscape. Zones 3-9 Photos Lisa DiNardo 7-23-04
