In addition, it is useful as pasture for livestock grazing and serves as a food source for many avian species, including the Long-tailed Widowbird.
The Long-tailed Widowbird feeds on a distinct variety of seeds, including those of Setaria sphacelata (Twisted-leaf bristle grass), Paspalum dilatatum (Common paspalum), Paspalum distichum (Couch paspalum), Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu grass), Triticum (wheat), Themeda triandra (Rooigras), and Senecio juniperinus (groundsel).
Invasive weeds which compete with the plant for resources include bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides), bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera), blackberry (Rubus fruticosus agg.), St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum), lantana (Lantana camara), African olive (Olea africana subsp. africana) and privet (Ligustrum lucidum).