Soil fertility improver
Tagasaste is an N-fixing legume that improves the nitrogen status of the soil, thus benefiting neighbouring grasses. Its extensive root system taps nutrients and water deep in the soil (down to 10 m) and makes them available in the upper layers for shallower rooting neighbouring plants (George et al., 2003).
Soil reclamation
Tagasaste has been assessed for salinity control: it reduces water runoff and seepage, and thus assists in reducing the rising water table effect (Eastham et al., 1993). However, it is sensitive to salinity, and growth is reduced in saline conditions (O'Donoghue, 2011).
Windbreak, soil binder, erosion controller and revegetation
Planted as a windbreak tagasaste reduces the impact of wind erosion, and its extensive deep-rooted system assists in binding the soil, thus reducing the impact of water runoff on steep slopes. Tagasaste is valuable for revegetation in eroded areas (George et al., 2003; O'Donoghue, 2011).
Firebreak
Tagasaste is used in Western Australia as a firebreak to protect pine plantations (O'Donoghue, 2011).
Bees
Tagasaste starts flowering during winter: it is thus a much appreciated source of nectar for bees. It provides high quality pollen and nectar (George et al., 2003).