Daléa

Daléa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, commonly known as the pea family. These plants are native to the Mediterranean region and surrounding areas. The genus contains several species, with Daléa echinata being a prominent example. Plants in this genus are typically herbaceous or suffrutescent, meaning they are somewhat woody at the base. They are characterized by their pinnately compound leaves and inflorescences bearing small, pea-like flowers. The flowers are usually yellow or orange, although other colors can occur. The fruits are typically small pods. Daléa species are often found in dry, open habitats, including grasslands, scrublands, and rocky areas. They are adapted to arid conditions and can be important components of Mediterranean flora. Some species have been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, though scientific validation of these uses may vary. The genus is of interest to botanists for its taxonomic relationships within the Fabaceae family and its ecological role in its native environments.