Carolina Nature

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina

Dwarf Bristly Locust (Robinia nana)

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Dwarf Bristly Locust (Robinia nana)

This uncommon low-growing deciduous shrub is most frequently found in the Sandhills region of North Carolina's Coastal Plain, but also rarely occurs in the Piedmont and Mountains.

Similar to other Robinias, but it normally has glabrous (smooth) stems and few spines. It produces masses of beautiful flowers in mid-April but rarely sets fruit.

Weymouth Woods, Moore Co., NC 4/18/10.

Dwarf Bristly Locust (Robinia nana)

Flower detail.

Weymouth Woods, Moore Co., NC 4/18/10.

Dwarf Bristly Locust (Robinia nana)

The specific epithet nana means 'dwarf,' which is appropriate since this species rarely reaches 2 feet high.

Also known as Robinia hispida L. var. nana (Ell.) DC.

Weymouth Woods, Moore Co., NC 6/10/06

More information:
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