Sunburst Honey Locust

Botanical Name: 
Gleditsia triacanthos 'Sunburst'
Family: 
Pea Family (Leguminosae)
Origin: 
A cultivated variety (cultivar) of the Honey Locust, which is native to eastern United States.
At Hearst Castle: 
One tree along stairs east of B House; this tree is a relatively recent planting from the 1970's.
Comments: 
This cultivar, 'Sunburst,' was developed for the color of its leaves and is especially effective when contrasted with dark green plants such as the Italian Cypress. The wild form of Honey Locust is very spiny, and cultivated varieties such as this one have been selected for lack of thorns.
Description: 
Deciduous tree to 35-70 feet tall; leaves divided into many small, oval leaflets giving a fern-like appearance to the foliage; leaves are normally green, but the 'Sunburst' cultivar has light yellow leaves; flowers small and inconspicous.