Propagate and Silvanus Forestry are excited to announce that we have partnered to scale black locust in the United States. This past November, Propagate secured an exclusive license to the Turbo Obelisk variety group, a line of elite Robinia genetics that will serve as a catalyst for black locust agroforestry.

In partnership with

Black Locust Turbo Obelisk™

Dr. Kapusi planted trials of 50,000 seedlings, from elite and improved parent trees. After 12 years, he selected the best-performing 125 specimens. These trees showed a 100-200% increase in growth rate after 14 years. Around the year 2000, Silvanus took on breeding and commercialization efforts. In 2012, Silvanus selected 70 clones for further trials. The goals of 11-12 inch DBH on a 12-15 year rotation, with a straight growth form and superior wood quality, have now been achieved.

Straight Growth Form

The Turbo Obelisk exhibits a straight growth form and an exceptional growth rate as compared to conservation genetics which have a high variability of tree form. This makes milling much easier and decreases he % of log that ends up as milling waste.

Black Locust Turbo Obelisk™ (4 year Old)

Conservation Grade

Superior Growth Rate & Wood Quality

The Turbo Obelisk exceptional growth rate as compared to conservation genetics which still grows fast for a temperate hardwood. Faster growth allows for sub-20 year harvest periods and can help decrease risk of locust borer due to higher tree vigor.

Black Locust Turbo Obelisk™

Conservation Grade