treeN. America Native

Twisty Baby Black Locust

Robinia pseudoacacia 'Lace Lady'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Medium-lived tree

Native To

North America

Toxicity

All parts, especially bark and seeds, are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Robinia pseudoacacia, or Black Locust, is a fast-growing, tough deciduous tree native to North America, known for its nitrogen-fixing abilities and tolerance of poor, dry soils. The species can be weedy and has sharp thorns. 'Lace Lady' (also known as Twisty Baby) is a unique dwarf, contorted cultivar. It features zig-zagging, twisted branches and curled leaves, creating a fascinating architectural specimen, especially in winter. It is much smaller and less aggressive than the species.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A true four-season specimen plant. Its twisted, contorted branches provide striking architectural interest in the winter, while the curled, lacy leaves create a unique texture in summer.

Its small size and tolerance of poor, dry urban soils make it a good choice for difficult sites where other small trees might fail. It is also an excellent container specimen.

As a legume, it fixes atmospheric nitrogen, which can enrich poor soils over time, benefiting nearby plants.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location in full sun with average to poor, well-drained soil.
This tree thrives on neglect and does not need rich soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Set the plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot.
Backfill the hole and water to settle the soil.
Water occasionally during the first year, then it becomes very drought tolerant.

Pro Tip

Avoid over-fertilizing and overly rich soils, as this can encourage weak, fast growth and suckering from the rootstock.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for the best, most compact growth.
Prune out any suckers that emerge from below the graft union.
Allow soil to dry out between waterings.

Don't

Do not plant in a shady location.
Avoid fertilizing or planting in heavily amended, rich soil.
Do not overwater; it is highly susceptible to root rot in wet soils.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Unique specimen for small gardensArchitectural accent in winter landscapesEye-catching container plant

Companion Plants

Sedum Yucca Echinacea Ornamental Grasses (e.g., Schizachyrium) Sempervivum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Twisty Baby Black Locust questions

What zones can Twisty Baby Black Locust grow in?

Twisty Baby Black Locust is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Twisty Baby Black Locust deer resistant?

Yes — Twisty Baby Black Locust is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Twisty Baby Black Locust bloom?

Twisty Baby Black Locust typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Twisty Baby Black Locust need full sun?

Twisty Baby Black Locust does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Twisty Baby Black Locust drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Twisty Baby Black Locust handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.