Tree native to North America with a broad and sparse crown, and a trunk and branches covered with spines ranging from 8 to 20 cm (except G. triacanthos “Inermis”). The deciduous leaves are made up of 20–30 leaflets, with color varying by variety. In May, it blooms with inconspicuous flowers, while the fruits are very noticeable brown pods, up to 45 cm long. It also grows in dry and calcareous soils and is used for parks and avenues.