Hongsen locust tree: the secret weapon for ensuring the success of China's wood-based panel industry chain.

Faced with increasing orders for wood-based panels in the building materials market, China's timber market is under immense pressure. Ultimately, the development of the wood-based panel industry relies on China's vast timber market. Therefore, forestry development is a key focus for the Chinese wood-based panel industry. If timber becomes scarce, the industry will face annihilation. To address this issue, the Chinese wood-based panel industry has racked its brains, and planting fast-growing trees has become one of the most effective solutions. So, with so many types of fast-growing trees available, which should be planted? Here, we introduce a secret weapon to ensure the survival of China's wood-based panel industry chain-the *Sophora japonica* (also known as the Chinese locust tree).

The Chinese locust tree (Sophora japonica) is a newly emerging, excellent, fast-growing tree species.

Many people don't know what the *Sophora japonica* (also known as the Chinese locust tree) is or what its advantages are. However, in terms of economic value, a single *Sophora japonica* tree is generally two to three times the price of an ordinary poplar or eucalyptus tree, making it very valuable. So, what exactly is the *Sophora japonica*? It is a deciduous tree belonging to the Fabaceae family, specifically the black locust. Its five main characteristics are rapid growth, straight trunk, narrow crown, thorn removal, and hard wood. The fast-growing black locust, in particular, has many advantages, the most significant being its rapid growth and quick return on investment. It can be sold within just three years, and its price has consistently been on the rise. Furthermore, the black locust has unique added value: its flowers are used for both medicinal and culinary purposes; its flower tea and vegetables are green and ecological; its honey is of superior quality; and its stems and leaves can be processed into animal feed. It is not demanding in terms of its growing environment and is suitable for both southern and northern climates. For afforestation in mountainous areas, the black locust is the first choice. As long as the soil conditions are suitable, it can grow even in barren and desolate land. It is particularly effective in preventing landslides, making it an excellent variety that combines greening and timber production, improving soil and the ecological environment.

Disadvantages of *Sophora spp.*

While the market benefits of *Sophora japonica* are increasing, we must also mention its shortcomings. After all, every tree has its own weaknesses. Although *Sophora japonica* grows to be very tall, its wind resistance is relatively weaker than other trees. Its root system is very developed, and its reproductive capacity is particularly strong. Its biggest drawback is that it is most vulnerable to waterlogging, which can be devastating. Therefore, it is not suitable for planting in low-lying areas.