Fabaceae (legume family)

Fabaceae, or the legume family, is a large plant family that includes beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts. These plants often have distinctive seed pods that split open when mature. They are known for their ability to fix nitrogen from the air, improving soil fertility naturally. Many legumes are cultivated for food, animal feed, or soil health, and some have medicinal or ornamental uses. They typically have compound leaves and produce flowers that attract pollinators. The family is important both ecologically and economically, contributing to sustainable agriculture and providing essential nutrients worldwide.