Gleditsia triac. iner. Continental

Continental Honeylocust

Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis ‘Continental’ is a fast-growing, thornless deciduous tree valued for its upright, oval form and refined, fine-textured foliage. Leaves emerge fresh green in spring, create light, filtered shade through summer, and turn soft yellow in fall, while blooms are small and not ornamentally significant. Its balanced habit and durability make it well suited for streets, lawns, and large-scale landscapes.

Type: Deciduous tree

Mature Size:
Width: 30–35 ft
Height: 40–50 ft
(10-year size: approx. 20–25 ft tall × 15–20 ft wide)

USDA Zones: 4a–9b
Form: Upright, oval, moderately open canopy
Light: Full sun
Soil: Highly adaptable; tolerates poor, compacted, and urban soils
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Attracts bees; provides light habitat for birds


Features & Landscape Uses


Upright oval form fits streets and open landscapes



Light, filtered shade allows turf and plantings below



Durable and adaptable for urban conditions



Good choice for lawns, parks, and avenues




Care
Low-maintenance and resilient. Plant in full sun for best growth and structure. Prune when young to develop a strong framework. Tolerates heat, drought, salt, and pollution. Generally pest- and disease-resistant, with occasional honeylocust pests possible.

Plant type

Shade Tree

Height

60'

Width

0-50'4

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Clay

Shape

Broad Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No