If this tree grows near you, you’re sitting on gold and don’t even know it! Most people don’t…

If This Tree Grows Near You, You’re Sitting on Gold and Don’t Even Know It!

Most people see the Honey Locust and see a “danger tree.” With trunk-shrouding thorns that look like something out of a prehistoric era, it’s often the last tree a homeowner wants in their backyard. But if you’ve been ignoring this spiked sentinel, you’re missing out on one of nature’s most versatile resources.

The “Honey” in the Name
The real treasure lies within the long, reddish-brown seed pods that litter the ground in autumn. If you crack one open, you’ll find a thick, succulent pulp surrounding the seeds.

Natural Sweetener: This pulp is remarkably sweet—tasting like a mix of honey, molasses, and tamarind.
High Energy: Historically, it was a vital source of sugar for Indigenous peoples and early settlers.
The Process: As seen in the images, the pods can be sliced and dehydrated. Once dried, they can be ground into a powder that serves as a flour extender or a natural sweetener for porridges and teas.
Beyond the Sugar: A Survivalist’s Dream
The “gold” isn’t just in the sugar content; it’s in the utility.