Creeping mesquite also reproduces vegetatively from creeping lateral roots. Fruits are consumed and dispersed by animals. Rodents often plant seed. A proportion of seed remains viable after ingestion by livestock. These seeds typically have higher germination rates.
Seed can germinate under considerable moisture stress.
Seed retained within intact pods can remain viable for up to 40 years, but exposed seeds dry out or decay more rapidly. Seedlings typically emerge from soil depths of 1-2 cm. Seedling root growth can be up to 10 times more rapid than shoot growth. Plants mature after 3 years. Livestock browsing on fruits can disperse seeds to new sites.