Black locust is among the hardest domestic woods, comparable to hickory. It’s natural chemistries also make it an exceptionally rot and decay resistant wood. And so, it has gained in appreciation as a durable alternative to tropical hardwoods. 

The color can range from pale greenish yellow to darker browns as it ages. The grain is relatively course and open, with even tones. Like any wood exposed to UV rays, it will develop grey tones with age.  

The tree, which primarily grew through parts of the mid-Atlantic, was appreciated early on by pioneers for fence posts and to a lesser extent ship masts. Black locust has been increasingly valued as a natural and often more sustainable option for fence boards and posts, and in modern times, deck extensions.