Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree

Name: Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 24054
Price: 69.99 USD
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.74 (19 reviews)

Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis 'Suncole'

$69⁹⁹

Shipping calculated at checkout.

Out of stock

Enter your ZIP code to check shipping availability.

Plant Size

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Fast-growing, Thornless, Seedless, Salt Tolerant, Clay Tolerant, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Hedge/Screen, Non-invasive
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	35-45 ft
Width	30-40 ft
Growth Rate	Fast
Flower Color	White, Green
Botanical Name	Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis 'Suncole'
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR, VI

An attractive and easy care brilliant shock of color! If you want an attractive hardwood shade tree that grows quickly and has a lot of style, take a good look at the native Sunburst® Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis 'Suncole'). This is a great tree that handles tough conditions without any trouble.

This is a wonderful selection for the home landscape. It's pollution, drought, and salt tolerant and will give you very little trouble. You won't even have a big job with fall cleanup!

Sunburst® is considered by many to be the perfect lawn tree. It grows into a vase shape and with a beautiful rounded canopy. The leaves are one of its best features! Our horticulture team calls them "pinnately compound", which means each leaf has tiny, symmetrical leaflets that are made up of even smaller rows of leaflets!

Sunburst® Honeylocust is well-known for its bright sunny yellow leaves that emerge in the spring. As the new growth expands, the foliage at the tips remains very yellow until it matures. The fine-textured, compound leaves cast a refreshing dappled shade. The leaves are nicely green through the summer and turn a lovely golden-yellow in the fall.

And little leaves? So much easier to pick up in the fall. Often, a majority of them will just be whisked up by the wind and carried away. The tiny leaves that are left can actually be left to break down into rich, organic compost over the winter. Or zip, zip, zip - a quick pass of the mower and you're DONE with fall cleanup! No raking is required.

This tree is a tough cookie throughout USDA growing zones 4 to 9, that excels in areas where others don't. We're talking compacted soil, clay soil, urban pollution, high heat, and limited maintenance or care! Sunburst® Honey Locust is also a very hard-wooded tree that tolerates ice storms and wind with few problems.

For decades, growers have worked to improve many of our hardy, native American tree species, reducing undesirable traits and boosting all those delightful plant characteristics we love so much. One of the most popular of these hybrid selections is the Sunburst® Honeylocust!

Planting and Application:

Honeylocust trees, or just Locust trees, are native to America, so they are usually very hardy. Sunburst® is a seedless/pod-less male cultivar that has been bred to be extra hardy! It isn't fazed by street or air pollution, salt, soot, or a whole range of soils, including challenging soil conditions.

Your lawn grasses can grow beneath it. Pretty perennials or small shrubs for partial shade can easily establish and grow for you directly underneath it. Shade your backyard entertainment areas or reduce cooling costs in the summer by situating this tree 10-15 feet from your home to block the sun in the summer but let light through in the winter once the deciduous leaves drop.

Recommended for wherever a large shade tree is required, Sunburst® works in large parking lot islands or buffer zone plantings. Municipalities have used Honeylocust trees as street trees because of their great adaptability to soils and tolerance where road salt is used.

They can be planted in close groups to create a shaded grove in a large landscape. This tree grows as an informal pyramidal outline when young, but opens up into an upright, spreading form at maturity.

You can also use Sunburst® Honeylocust as a bright accent specimen tree. The early yellow leaf color and the way the wind plays through the lacy leaves will draw your eye.

Fast Growing Hardwood Tree
Sunny Yellow New Leaves in Spring
Thornless & Pod-Less Cloned Male Variety
Small Sprays of White Flowers Pollinators Seek Out
Refreshing Dappled Light Shade, Perfect Lawn & Shade Tree

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Simply plant Sunburst® in full sun and give it the space to grow and watch this fast-growing tree thrive. Honeylocust will tolerate almost any type of soil, but it must be well-drained. Nature Hills Root Booster is recommended to help your new plants make new roots easier. Give a moderate amount of water on a regular basis to establish the plant. Once it's established in your soil, it will be quite drought-tolerant.

Top the soil with a 3-4 inch thick layer of arborist mulch - especially when planted in the lawn. Create a buffer zone extending 3-4 feet from the trunk to protect the bark from mower and weed wacker damage.

Pruning to shape branch structure is recommended when the tree is young. It may seem odd, but Honeylocust are best pruned in June while it's actively growing. This will prevent any disease problems.

Full Sun Deciduous Tree
Highly Adaptable to Any Well-Drained Soil Type
Moderate to Low Moisture Once Established
Long-Lived Tree & Super-Low Maintenance
Pollution, Drought & Salt Tolerant & Deer Seldom Bother It

Did we mention that this tree is thornless and seedless? It's a cloned male variety, and couldn't be any easier! Nature Hills sells out of this high-demand tree. If you see the Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree online, place your order with us today!

This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.

My absolute favorite tree, but the roots system is extremely invasive, if not planted the right l...

This tree was by far my most favorite tree on the property. I wish I could post a picture of it in this review. Last weekend we had no choice but to take it out completely because the root system was different than a typical tree. Its roots traveled literally 40 - 50 feet away from the trunk and were like a massive web of long semi fine but tough runners. The lawn, and all the other trees and shrubs in its path struggled because of it. I am still crying that I had to take it down because I loved everything about it. I loved the brilliant neon yellow fern like foliage which pretty much disappeared in the fall when it shed and didn’t need to be raked up. I am going to buy two more and plant them in places where the roots can do what they want and not affect anything around them.

Hi Ericka,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt experience with this tree. We completely understand how tough it can be to part with a favorite plant, especially one that has such unique and beautiful characteristics like that neon yellow, fern-like foliage. Your detailed description of the root system is really helpful—it sounds like you have a keen eye and great admiration for your garden!

This aggressive root spreading is indeed a key thing to consider with certain trees, especially when planted close to lawns or other vegetation. Your plan to give your next two trees plenty of space is wise and will let those roots thrive without creating competition. We’d be happy to help you select ideal planting locations or even explore root barrier options that can sometimes help redirect or contain spreading roots.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about site selection or ideal companion plants. We’d love to help you recreate that joyful planting experience without worrying about root interference again!

To greener days ahead,
Nature Hills Customer Care & Plant Support

I love this tree. It

I love this tree. It is doing great. I have seen them around and one day I stopped and asked the people what the name of the tree.. they was very happy to tell me. They loved it too.

Dear Donna,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your tree! We’re delighted to hear it’s doing great and that you’ve connected with others who share your excitement about it. There’s something so special about how trees can bring people together—and it sounds like yours is doing just that. If you ever want tips on care or ideas to enhance your garden further, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help you keep your green space thriving!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

I love this tree. It

I love this tree. It is doing great. I have seen them around and one day I stopped and asked the people what the name of the tree.. they was very happy to tell me. They loved it too.

Dear Donna,

Thank you so much for sharing your joyful experience with your new tree! We’re thrilled to hear it’s thriving and that it has become a lovely talking point with others who appreciate it as much as you do. Trees truly have a special way of bringing people together, and your story captures that perfectly.

If you ever have questions about care tips or want suggestions for companion plants to make your garden even more vibrant, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help your garden flourish!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Great Tree

I planted this tree about 15 years ago in my front yard.The Sunburst has exactly what I was looking for leaf litter is almost nonexistant due to the tiny leaves.The spring color is amazing and it allows enough sunlight through for grass to grow all the way to the trunk.My tree is now about 35 high and 25 wide.

Hello Hope4drew,

Thank you so much for sharing your incredible journey with the Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! It’s truly heartening to hear how well it has thrived over the past 15 years and that it matches perfectly what you envisioned—from its minimal leaf litter to the stunning spring color and the dappled sunlight that nourishes your lawn. A mature height of 35 feet with a 25-foot spread is nothing short of spectacular!

If you’re ever looking to enrich the health of your tree or maintain that beautiful canopy, consider seasonal mulching to protect the roots and cautious pruning during dormancy to keep its shape vibrant. Also, since your tree serves such an inviting function, exploring local bird-friendly landscaping might add another layer of enjoyment.

Thank you again for trusting Nature Hills for your planting needs and taking the time to geek out with us about your beautiful honeylocust. If ever you need tips or assistance for the next addition in your yard, we’re just a message away!

To greener days ahead,
Nature Hills Customer Care & Plant Support

Sunburst Honey Locust

We planted our tree in August of 05. My husband thought it was a Charlie Brown tree but has since changed his opinion. It will provide the filtered shade to our front east facing window without the mess in the fall. My husband would like to plant two more in the park strip, but we are having difficulty finding out if the root system will work there. We need to make sure the roots will not grow under the sidewalk.

Dear Sisterscrapper,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughtful experience with your Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree. It’s wonderful to hear that what started as a “Charlie Brown tree” in your husband’s eyes has grown on both of you and is now a valued part of your landscape! The filtered shade from this tree is definitely one of its charming qualities.

Regarding planting two more in the park strip and your concern about the root system affecting the sidewalk, you’ve raised a very important point. Sunburst® Honeylocust trees tend to have a relatively non-invasive root system compared to some other larger shade trees, but roots will naturally spread out looking for water and nutrients. To help prevent roots from impacting sidewalks, you can:

- Provide plenty of deep watering around the drip line to encourage contractor-friendly roots rather than surface-root invasions.
- Mulch around the base to keep the soil moist and healthy, discouraging unsightly root splay.
- Use a root barrier system installed between the trees and the sidewalk for extra protection.
- Consult with a local arborist or city planning department as per your community’s regulations about plantings in park strips.

For more detailed information, we also recommend this helpful guide on tree roots and sidewalks hosted on our website’s Resources section.

We’re delighted our tree continues to meet your planting needs, and we’re here if you need further advice planning for the new additions!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

pruning/trimming a sunburst

Can I trim and shape the lowere sections of the tree here in September. The leaves are sre starting to turn, we do get sno and freesing temps during the winter. Answer from Nature Hills: Yes you can trim the tree in the fall.

Dear Garden H.,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about pruning your Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! We're delighted to hear you're taking such good care of your tree and want to make sure you do it right.

Pruning the lower sections of your honeylocust in September is indeed appropriate. As the leaves begin to turn, it’s a good time to trim lightly and shape the tree without causing too much stress before winter. Since you experience snow and freezing temperatures, just be sure to avoid heavy pruning late in the season, as that can encourage new growth that might be vulnerable to frost damage. Keeping the cuts clean and using sharp tools will help your tree heal better, too.

If you’d like, we also recommend checking out our pruning guide on NatureHills.com for some step-by-step tips tailored to honeylocust trees. And remember, remove any damaged or diseased branches to keep your tree healthy through the winter months!

If you have any further questions or want advice on your garden, we’re always here to help.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

A Real Beauty

These have lovely small leaves that are honey colored in the sun when new and branches reminiscent of elms and are used in many environments to replace elms lost to disease.

Dear Fiddler,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely thoughts about the Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! You’ve beautifully captured its charm—the delicate, honey-colored new leaves and those elegant branches really do make it a wonderful substitute for elms, especially given their resilience against disease. We’re delighted to hear you appreciate such unique characteristics.

If you’re interested in caring tips to keep your Honeylocust thriving, remember they appreciate well-drained soil and will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells, especially while young. Plus, their adaptability makes them great for a variety of garden environments as you mentioned!

Do let us know if you ever have questions or want more plant recommendations tailored to your space.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

A Real Beauty

These have lovely small leaves that are honey colored in the sun when new and branches reminiscent of elms and are used in many environments to replace elms lost to disease.

Dear Fiddler,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt appreciation of the Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! We're delighted to hear how much you love its honey-colored new leaves and the graceful branches that resemble elms. Indeed, the Sunburst® Honeylocust is a wonderful choice for bringing that elm-like charm back into landscapes where disease has taken a toll.

If you're interested in helping it thrive even more, be sure to plant it in well-drained soil with full to partial sun, and enjoy its wonderful shade and unique color throughout the seasons. We also encourage occasional pruning to maintain its elegant form, especially in younger trees.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out about any plant care tips or questions down the line — we're always here to help your garden grow beautifully.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Leaf density

So happy with my Sunburst honeylocust. My lawn grass is not stressed at all with the light shade.

Hi Mick,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with the Sunburst® Honeylocust! We’re thrilled to hear that the light shade it provides is perfect for keeping your lawn grass healthy and unstressed. This tree’s beautiful canopy is known for offering just the right balance of sunlight and shade—your success is a wonderful testament to that.

If you ever need tips on pruning to maintain that lovely leaf density or advice on nutrient management to keep both your honeylocust and lawn thriving, don’t hesitate to reach out. We're always here to help you keep your garden in top shape.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Leaf density

So happy with my Sunburst honeylocust. My lawn grass is not stressed at all with the light shade.

Hi Mick,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with your Sunburst® Honeylocust! We’re delighted to hear that the tree’s light shade is helping your lawn grass thrive without any stress. The delicate canopy of the Sunburst truly makes it a fantastic choice for adding beauty while preserving sunlight to surrounding plants.

If you ever want to enhance your tree’s health further, consider seasonal watering tips—especially during dry spells—and periodic mulching to maintain soil moisture as well. Feel free to reach out if you have questions or want additional care advice as your honeylocust grows!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Fast growing

My sunburst honeylocust just took off growing for me. I was told it was moderate growing but it seems faster than that to me. I am really happy with this tree choice.

Hello Berti,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! We’re thrilled to hear that it’s thriving and growing even faster than expected. While it’s often noted as a moderate grower, factors like soil quality, sunlight, and care can give it a bit of a growth boost – it sounds like you’re providing the perfect environment. Keep an eye out for its delicate fern-like leaves and the beautiful yellow-orange fall color, which make it such a standout tree.

If you ever need tips on pruning or protecting it through seasonal changes, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your tree continue flourishing!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Fast growing

My sunburst honeylocust just took off growing for me. I was told it was moderate growing but it seems faster than that to me. I am really happy with this tree choice.

Dear Berti R,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! It’s fantastic to hear that your tree is growing even faster than expected—sometimes those “moderate” growers can surprise us in the best ways. Your happiness with this choice truly means a lot to us.

As your tree continues to thrive, it’s great to remember that regular watering during dry spells and occasional mulching can help maintain its vigor and health. These care steps support steady growth and help in protecting the root system.

If you ever have questions about pruning or how to enhance your tree’s development, we’re always here to provide guidance. We love seeing our trees become vibrant parts of your landscape!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Very Happy

I just bought this tree and am impressed with its size and vigor. The tree is 5-6 feet tall and arrived in very good condition. It is bareroot, but seems to be taking to its new location well. I planted it so I can have dappled shade on our porch. I'll write back in five years with an update on how it is going!

Dear Tree L.,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with your new Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! We’re delighted to hear that it arrived in excellent condition and is already adjusting well to its new home. Choosing bareroot trees is a fantastic way to get vigorous, healthy growth right from the start, and it sounds like you gave your tree a perfect planting spot to enjoy that lovely dappled shade on your porch.

As you continue nurturing your tree, remember to keep the root zone evenly moist but not waterlogged during its initial establishment period. Mulching around the base (while keeping it a few inches away from the trunk) will help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature—a real bonus through changing seasons. We would love to hear from you again in five years and celebrate the continued growth and beauty of your honeylocust!

Feel free to reach out anytime if you have questions or need tips. Here’s to many lovely, shaded summers ahead!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Very Happy

Dear Tree Lover,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with your new Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! We're delighted to hear that it arrived healthy and at such a great size. Planting a bareroot tree can bring lots of rewards, and it sounds like yours is off to a wonderful start. The dappled shade you’re anticipating on your porch will truly create a lovely and inviting space.

As your tree gets established, be sure to keep the soil evenly moist—but not waterlogged—especially during its first growing season. Adding a layer of mulch around the base (but not touching the trunk) can help retain moisture and protect the roots. We look forward to your update in five years and can't wait to hear how beautifully your Sunburst® Honeylocust thrives!

If you ever have questions or need guidance along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

root spread

Hi, I remember how impressive the color of the tree was when I was in my college time and I walked in the campus, one road was all planted with this tree.When I found this on your site, I can't wait to plant it. However I see the size is not small. I want to plant this tree on the side of my drive way to throw some filtered shades. I want to know how far away I need to plant this tree to make sure the root will not destroy the drive way. Also is the sandy soil OK? I live in zone 7.Thank you.NHN Response: The spread of the Sunburst at maturity is 30 - 40 feet. A good rule when considering root spread is multiply the above ground spread by 2.5. That will be the approximate root spread development. Zone 7 will be fine to plant the Sunburst.

Hi plantation,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely memories with the Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! It’s wonderful to hear how much this tree inspired you during your college days, and we’re excited that you’ve chosen to bring that same beauty to your own driveway.

Regarding your concerns, you’re absolutely right to consider root spread and soil type before planting. As a general guideline, since the mature canopy spread is 30-40 feet, planting the tree at least 75-100 feet away from your driveway is advisable to help prevent roots from impacting the pavement. However, if space is limited, planting it a minimum of 25 feet from the driveway can sometimes work, especially with root barriers installed to guide growth. For detailed assistance, root barrier products can be a labor-saving option and can safeguard your driveway while still giving your tree ample room to thrive.

Your sandy soil is also suitable! Sunburst® Honeylocust adapts well to well-drained soils, including sandy types, and Zone 7 is perfectly aligned with this tree's hardiness zone – so you’re in great shape for a successful planting.

To help ensure optimal health, ongoing mulching, seasonal irrigation, and avoiding planting in heavy clay patches where water might pool will support your tree as it settles in. If you’d like, we also offer helpful planting guides and care tips on our website tailored to the Sunburst® Honeylocust.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with more questions—we’re here to help you cultivate the lush shaded driveway you envision!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

root spread

Hello Plantation,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful memories of the Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree and for choosing to bring its stunning color to your own space! It’s always heartwarming to hear how a plant continues to leave an impression through the years.

Regarding your concerns about root spread near your driveway, you’re on the right track to be thoughtful! Since the mature canopy can reach 30 to 40 feet, expect the root system to extend approximately 2.5 times that distance – so planting the tree at least 75 to 100 feet away from the edge of your driveway is a safe way to minimize any risk to your pavement. For smaller separations, using a sturdy root barrier could help protect surfaces while still allowing you to enjoy filtered shade.

As for the soil, sandy soil is generally suitable for Honeylocust trees, and your zone 7 climate will support healthy growth. Just be sure your soil drains well; you might consider adding organic matter to improve moisture retention and nutrient availability if needed.

If you need more guidance on planting or specific care tips, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to help you get the most out of your new Tree!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Sunburst Honey Locust

Hello sisterscrapper,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! We love hearing how opinions can change—sometimes those 'Charlie Brown tree' moments turn into beloved features that provide just the right filtered shade. It’s great to know your tree is flourishing by your front window without adding extra cleanup in the fall.

Regarding the possibility of planting two more trees in the park strip, your concern about root systems is absolutely valid. The Sunburst® Honeylocust is known for having a relatively shallow and non-invasive root system compared to other trees, which generally makes it a good candidate for areas near sidewalks. However, roots will naturally spread to seek water and nutrients, so some care in planting distance and thoughtful installation can help minimize impact on your sidewalks. You might consider planting them at least 4 to 6 feet away from hardscape edges to allow the roots some room without disturbing structures.

For extra peace of mind, you could consult with your local arborist or city municipality about underground utilities and sidewalks, as they might have recommendations specific to your area and site conditions. Planting in a well-prepared soil bed and regularly watering during establishment can help roots stay healthy but not overly invasive.

We’re so glad the first tree is thriving, and we hope your husband is inspired for future plantings! If you need any detailed planting tips or suggestions on care, feel free to reach out anytime.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Great Tree

Dear Hope4drew,

Thank you so much for sharing the story of your Sunburst® Honeylocust tree! It's wonderful to hear that after 15 years, it’s bringing exactly what you envisioned to your front yard. The way you describe its minimal leaf litter and beautiful spring color really highlights the qualities that make this tree so special. Plus, it’s great to know that it lets enough light through to keep your grass thriving all the way to the trunk—a lovely testament to your thoughtful planting choice and care over the years.

For continued health, just remember to water it deeply during dry spells and watch for any signs of pests such as lace bugs, though damage is usually minimal with the Sunburst® variety. Also, periodic pruning to maintain its shape can help your tree continue to flourish for many more decades to come. If you ever want tips on friend trees or shrubs that compliment the Honeylocust’s features, we’re happy to help you expand your beautiful green space.

Thank you again for trusting Nature Hills with your planting needs and for taking the time to share your experience with us!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

pruning/trimming a sunburst

Dear Garden happy,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about pruning your Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree! It’s wonderful to hear you’re attentive to your tree’s care as the seasons change.

Great news—you can indeed trim and shape the lower sections of your Honeylocust in September. Fall pruning is a good time to remove any crossing or dead branches as your tree prepares for winter dormancy. Since your area experiences snow and freezing temperatures, now is perfect for cleanup pruning rather than heavy cutting, which is better reserved for early spring to encourage vigorous growth. Also, make sure to sanitize your pruning tools before use to prevent any infections.

If you’d like, we have detailed guides on pruning Honeylocust trees and general fall garden care on our site—feel free to explore those for additional tips. We’re glad to support you in helping your tree thrive year after year!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree

Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis 'Suncole'

Planting and Application:

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Where to Plant

Watering Requirements

Pruning Tips

Fertilizer Needs

Shipping Rates

Choose options

Sunburst® Honeylocust Tree

Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis 'Suncole'

Specifications

Description

Planting and Application:

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Watering Requirements

Pruning Tips

Fertilizer Needs

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Find on Page