Tree Lucerne

Description

Tree Lucerne (Chamaecytisus palmensis) is somewhat of an interloper in our Native Nursery but I can assure you it has its place in your native plantings. Perfect for fast shelter, erosion control, and feeding wildlife. While short-lived (10–15 years), it grows rapidly, improves soil health, and supports biodiversity, making it an excellent pioneer species.

Speedy Growth, Short Lifespan: Establishes quickly, providing shelter while longer-lived natives take hold.
Bird & Bee Haven: A great food source for Kererū in the winter and with nectar-rich flowers attract tūī, bellbirds, and bees, boosting biodiversity.
Soil Improver: Fixes nitrogen, enriching the soil and preparing the ground for future forest regeneration.

How to Use It

• Ideal for degraded land, and erosion-prone sites as a short-term pioneer.
• Pair with tōtara, kānuka, and karamu for a layered, long-term restoration mix.
• Low-maintenance— we recommend releasing in the Spring (maybe again in the Summer depending on weed growth), and let it naturally make way for slower-growing natives.

No native revegetation project would be complete without including a number of Tree Lucerne—fast, wildlife-friendly, and soil-enriching. Plant it, let it do its job, and watch the next generation of natives thrive!

Availability