Fabaceae Seeds | & Leguminosae
LATIN NAME: Fabaceae
COMMON NAME: Leguminosae, Pea Family, Legume Family
Plant Profile
Fabaceae — Leguminosae — is a species in the family Fabaceae with genuine garden merit. Fabaceae, or legume family, is one of largest and most important of plant families, and its members range from tiny clovers of lawn to towering acacias of the tropics, united by their pea-like flowers and their seed pods. These traits together are what have kept the plant in gardens for so long.
Science & Biotechnology
Within Fabaceae, Fabaceae is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Fabaceae have a real and distinguished place in research. Modern propagation practice has made this species straightforward to raise by ordinary good methods.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Leguminosae for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Ecologically, fabaceae are among the most important of the plant families. Their nitrogen-fixing roots enrich poor soils and allow other plants to grow, and their flowers feed bees and other pollinators, while their seeds and pods feed birds, rodents and larger animals across the world. To raise legumes, sow seeds in pots of moist, open soil in a bright, sunny place, keep them gently watered, and grow little plants on in the sun. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
Beyond its looks, it serves the wider garden: the flowers feed bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects, and stems cut for the vase bring the season indoors.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Leguminosae under ordinary good conditions. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in bright light with steady moisture. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Once established, Leguminosae, Pea Family, Legume Family largely looks after itself. What it needs is basic: sun, drainage, and a little patience while it establishes.
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