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tree lucerne plants for sale nz

Looking for hardy, fast-growing tree lucerne plants for sale in NZ? Chamaecytisus palmensis, commonly known as Tree Lucerne or Tagasaste, is a versatile evergreen shrub or small tree loved by New Zealand gardeners and farmers alike. Renowned for its rapid growth, resilience, and many uses, tree lucerne is a popular choice for shelter belts, windbreaks, fodder, and nitrogen-fixing hedges across a variety of New Zealand environments.

Chamaecytisus palmensis

Chamaecytisus palmensis, commonly known as Tree Lucerne or Tagasaste, is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that produces mid-green foliage held on arching branches. It bears masses of small, white, pea-like flowers through spring and summer, which are great for attracting birds. It typically grows to 8 m in height and 6 m in width, and can be trimmed as necessary. Chamaecytisus palmensis is used worldwide to feed and shelter livestock, stabilise soils, and correct nitrogen levels.

Chamaecytisus palmensis (Tree Lucerne) shrub with masses of white flowers.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Trees
  • Height:
    8.00 m
  • Spread:
    6.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Spring, Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Hedging, Ponds, Screening
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Backyard, Formal, Frontyard, Riparian
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Chamaecytisus palmensis

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Why Choose Tree Lucerne for Your NZ Property?

Tree lucerne thrives throughout much of New Zealand, coping well with wind, frost, and poor soils. Its quick establishment makes it ideal for anyone needing shelter or screening in a hurry. Tree lucerne is particularly valuable on lifestyle blocks, farms, and orchards, where its deep roots help stabilise banks and prevent erosion. Beneficial insects and native birds flock to tree lucerne’s profuse nectar-rich white flowers in spring, making it a delight for wildlife lovers.

A key reason for seeking out tree lucerne plants for sale in NZ is their remarkable use as living stock feed. As a highly palatable, protein-rich fodder tree, tagasaste can provide valuable supplementary feed for sheep, goats, chickens, and bees, especially in summer drought or winter lean periods. Their ability to fix nitrogen improves soil fertility, benefitting surrounding pasture and crops.

Growing Tips for Tree Lucerne in New Zealand

Plant your tree lucerne in a sunny, well-drained spot for best results. Prepare the soil by clearing weeds, and consider working in some compost to aid establishment. Space plants 1.5–2 metres apart if you’re creating a windbreak or shelterbelt. Water well during the first summer, and protect young trees from rabbits and hares until they’re established. Once grown, tree lucerne requires minimal maintenance—occasional light pruning will keep plants dense and manageable.

Companion Trees and Inspiration

Whether you’re adding tree lucerne for practicality or biodiversity, you can create a more diverse and resilient landscape by combining it with other remarkable trees. For a striking specimen tree, try Liriodendron tulipifera Allenton Gold (Tulip Tree), famous for its tulip-shaped flowers and bold foliage. The deep red leaves of Acer 'Red Emperor' make a spectacular autumn statement, while Magnolia Cameo offers exquisite blooms for smaller gardens. For wet sites or larger plantings, consider the stately Metasequoia Sheridan Spire (Sheridan Spire Metasequoia), or for a native choice, the handsome Alectryon excelsus (titoki) adds both beauty and bird habitat.

Buy Tree Lucerne Plants in NZ

Browse our range of tree lucerne plants for sale NZ-wide. Whether you need a handful for the home garden or bulk plants for large shelterbelts, we offer a reliable source of strong, healthy plants ready for dispatch across New Zealand. Order today and transform your landscape with this multipurpose superstar. If you need advice, our team is always here to help you create a thriving, sustainable planting for your property.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Our most famous blooms include Corokia 'Frosted Chocolate' and Gardenia Veitchii, but some of our best-kept secrets are Sophora 'Dragon's Gold', Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri), and Hosta Dew Drop — underrated beauties ready to shine.
–The Plant Company

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