Tagasaste / Tree Lucerne
(Chamaecytisus palmensis)
Excellent pioneer in new food forest or shelter systems.
Tagasaste, also known as Tree Lucerne, is one of the most versatile species for functional landscapes. Fast-growing and hardy, it provides high-protein fodder, fast shelter, and soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.
Well suited to coastal and hill country sites, Tagasaste thrives in poor, free-draining soils where other species struggle. It’s drought tolerant, wind-hardy, and a strong performer on north-facing slopes. Its deep roots help stabilise soil and access moisture during dry periods.
Tagasaste is ideal for lifestyle blocks, small farms, and regenerative systems where quick establishment is needed. It pairs perfectly with Alders or Eucalypts in shelterbelts, and as a nurse species for slower trees or orchard systems.A favourite among permaculture enthusiasts and off-gridders, it’s a “workhorse” tree providing shelter, animal feed, and fertility all in one.
Well suited to coastal and hill country sites, Tagasaste thrives in poor, free-draining soils where other species struggle. It’s drought tolerant, wind-hardy, and a strong performer on north-facing slopes. Its deep roots help stabilise soil and access moisture during dry periods.
Tagasaste is ideal for lifestyle blocks, small farms, and regenerative systems where quick establishment is needed. It pairs perfectly with Alders or Eucalypts in shelterbelts, and as a nurse species for slower trees or orchard systems.A favourite among permaculture enthusiasts and off-gridders, it’s a “workhorse” tree providing shelter, animal feed, and fertility all in one.
In PB 1 1/2 bags (0.9L), Average height 40cm
Site & Soil Preferences:
- Prefers free-draining soils — loam, sandy, or volcanic.
- Dislikes waterlogging.
- Excellent for north-facing slopes and coastal areas.
Uses:
- Fodder for goats, alpacas, sheep, and cattle.
- Shelterbelts and erosion control.
- Nurse species for slower-growing trees.
- Soil rehabilitation and nitrogen fixation.
Growth Rate:
Very fast — can reach 3–5 m in 2–3 years under good conditions.
Ideal Companion Species:
- Italian Alder – upper canopy partner, complementary nitrogen-fixer.
- Hazelnut – benefits from improved soil fertility.
- Eucalyptus ovata – fast shelter partner.
- Cabbage Tree / Tī kōuka – adds structure and drought tolerance.
- Flax (Phormium tenax) – ground-level shelter and soil binding.