The thornless honey locust tree is a selection of Gleditsia triacanthos, the three-thorned honey locust tree. As the name suggests, the most obvious distinguishing feature between the two trees is that the selection does not have thorns up to 8 cm long on the trunk and branches.

The honey locust does not form a "classic" compact crown. Ascending main branches and horizontal as well as overhanging twigs initially form a rather broad, somewhat tangled crown. If the tree is to grow tall, it may need to be supported with scaffolding.

The honey locust is sometimes used as a street tree, but is more suitable for single or group plantings in parks. With age, its growth sometimes appears bizarre.

• Origin: Selection of Gleditsia triacanthos (North America)
  
  
• Height: 15–25 meters
  
  
• Leaves: 20 cm long; pinnate; 20–30 lanceolate leaflets; fresh green; early transition to yellow autumn color
  
  
• Flower: June/July; 5–7 cm long clusters
  
  
• Fruit: up to 40 cm long, sickle-shaped curved and twisted pods; light brown; remain on the tree until late winter
  
  
• Soil/location: Sun; nutrient-rich, well-drained soil