Other Common Names/Trade Names: None
Scientific Name: Gleditsia triacanthos
Best Characteristics for Identification: Latewood pores are nested and surrounded by confluent parenchyma. Reddish gum often seen in pores. Florescent glow under a blacklight.
Uses: Frequently used in applications which require strength such as railroad ties, pallets, etc. Limited use for lumber, furniture, flooring.
General Natural Range: Nebraska south to eastern Texas. East to the Appalachian mountains to Pennsylvania.
Identical or Nearly Identical Species: None.
Other Species Easily Confused With: Kentucky coffeetree
Means of Distinguishing Similar Species: Latewood pores in coffeetree are visible with a hand lens and are typically arranged in nested clusters. In honeylocust, pores are barely visible with a hand lens and are surrounded by confluent parenchyma.