Shademaster Honeylocust Tree

Shademaster is a thornless honeylocust with ascending branches that open into a broad, spreading crown. Its fine compound leaves create dappled shade, and the foliage turns yellow in fall; [The Dawes Arboretum](https://dawesarb.arboretumexplorer.org/taxon.aspx?t=22403) records the Shademaster® selection at about 45 feet tall and 35 feet wide, while the [University of Arizona Campus Arboretum](https://apps.cals.arizona.edu/arboretum/taxon.aspx?id=1170) describes the larger range that can occur with this cultivar. ## Landscape Use Use Shademaster as a specimen or shade tree in a park, lawn, or broad streetscape where its open canopy can spread. The lightly filtered shade can allow turf to grow beneath the tree when soil and moisture conditions are suitable. ## Size and Siting Plan for a large tree, commonly around 45 feet tall and 35 feet wide, with broader mature estimates also reported. Provide full sun and generous overhead and lateral room. The Dawes Arboretum lists USDA Zone 4 hardiness and describes this cultivar as deciduous, fast-growing, thornless, and without fruit. ## Seasonal Interest The dark green, finely divided foliage gives the canopy a light texture in summer, followed by yellow fall color. The ascending branch structure remains visible after leaf drop, while the cultivar's lack of thorns and fruit reduces hazards and litter compared with many honeylocusts. ## Maintenance Water regularly during establishment and mulch over the root zone while keeping mulch clear of the trunk. Develop a strong central framework with selective pruning when young, then remove dead or crossing branches as needed.