It's hard to believe that what started out as a small cutting quickly develops into a metre-high deciduous tree. The robinia is literally shooting up. The mock acacia, as it is also called, shows considerable growth, especially in the first few years. Here you can find out precise information about the annual growth of robinia.
How fast does a black locust grow per year?
The growth of the black locust is 1-1.2 meters per year in the first ten years, after which it reduces to 0.25-0.5 meters per year and from forty years to 20 centimeters per year. The maximum growth height is 20-30 meters under optimal conditions.
Annual growth
The black locust grows very vigorously, especially when young, as the following table illustrates.
- Growth in the first ten years: 1-1.2 meters per year
- from ten years: 0.25-0.5 meters per year
- from the age of forty: 20 centimeters per year
Influence of site conditions
Considering that a locust tree can live up to 300 years, it explains why its crown towers almost out of reach into the sky. Unfortunately, the growth of the deciduous tree is not unlimited. Various factors and environmental influences inhibit growth. The maximum growth height is 20-30 meters, but only occurs under optimal conditions. To create this height, the black locust should be placed in groups. As a free-standing tree, it reaches a maximum height of only 12-20 meters. In addition, a location in an urban area or on busy streets leads to premature aging of the wood. Here the deciduous tree lacks oxygen to develop well.
