
Glycine max
Glycine max, commonly known as soybean, is a versatile legume native to East Asia. It produces seeds rich in protein and oil, making it a major crop worldwide for food, livestock feed, and industrial products like soy oil and soy-based foods. Soybeans are also valued for containing isoflavones, natural compounds that may have health benefits. They grow on tall, branching plants with trifoliate leaves and yellow flowers, thriving in temperate climates. As a sustainable crop, soybeans help fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Overall, Glycine max is essential for nutrition, agriculture, and industry globally.