The honey locust tree is native from southern Texas, to the Midwest, and over to parts of New England. They can reach heights of 65-100 feet and can live as long as 125 years. Their species name derives from Greek meaning "three thorns" which can commonly be found protruding from their trunks. The honey locust tree comes from the slightly sweet pulp surrounding the tree's pod and its resemblance to the "locust tree" found in the middle east. These seed pods rattle in the fall resembling the singing of locusts giving many to believe is the origin of its common name.
Historically, the thorns found on its bark were used as primitive nails, pins for carding wool, and needles to pin sacks and cloth. Confederate soldiers often used the thorns for their uniforms sometimes giving the tree the nickname of "Confederate pintree". Its wood was durable and was often used as fence posts and even railroad ties. The seed pods were often used by indigenous tribes as a source of sweetener as well as a food source for livestock . It was historically used medicinally and is still used and researched today to treat rheumatoid arthritis.