Pioneer tree for afforestation
The monkey thorn is an N-fixing tree that nodulates readily, has some resistance to drought and grows quickly. It is, therefore, a potential pioneer tree that can be used for afforestation in dry areas (Lemmens, 2006; Mlambo et al., 2004). It was successfully established in semi-arid areas of Botswana (annual rainfall below 450 mm), where it had lower mortality (only 1%) and developed much faster than Faidherbia albida (Walker et al., 2008).
Biodiversity
The monkey thorn provides dappled shade, suitable for lawns, and nesting for many bird species. It is attractive to bees and wasps (Lemmens, 2006).