Tagasaste / Tree Lucerne
(Chamaecytisus palmensis, formerly known as Cytisus proliferus)

Kimseed Stocks Australian produced Tagasaste Seed

Tagasaste (Chamaecytisus palmensis) is a fast growing, perennial, leguminous shrub or small tree, adapted to temperate regions with winter rains and extended dry summers. Tagasaste thrives on deep, infertile sandy soils (such as the on the Swan Coastal Plain of Western Australia) and if heavily pruned will become a multi-stemmed bushy shrub. The black seeds have an oily feel and are in pods similar to pea pods. Also, its dense fibrous root system does not appear to wilt even in the worst of droughts. Farmers traditionally depended on Tagasaste for fodder during long dry seasons. Similar to clovers, Tagasaste utilises soil bacteria to fix atmospheric nitrogen, which results in the leaves containing 20 to 40% protein, with no reported toxicity. Presently, Australian farmers are using the tree in cut and carry systems, since grazing animals, pigs and poultry readily consume its leaves.

Inoculant
Bacteria called Rhizobium live in a symbiotic relationship with many legumes, including Tagasaste. Advantageous to the plant, as it is able, once inoculated, to produce its own nitrogen, from the soil air. The bacteria are stored in peat. It should be stored in the fridge and used within 3 months. To use, moisten the seed with a small amount of milk or water and stir in the inoculant until seeds are coated. Do not inoculate the seed until you are ready to sow it and do not leave the inoculated seed in the sun.

Kimseed can supply inoculant, please ask for price details

Scarification
Tagasaste is a hard coated seed, and as such it is recommended that the seed be scarified before planting. By nicking the seed coat and allowing water to permeate germination increases significantly.  Kimseed is able to offer a scarifcation service using its especially designed scarifier. Please notify us if you would like the seed scarified when placing your order.

WEEPING TAGASASTE SEEDLINGS
The ultimate fodder crop! A prostrate cultivar of regular tagasaste produced in Western Australia, for more information please click here.