Frasea

Frasea is a genus of plants in the family Fabaceae, commonly known as pea plants. These herbaceous or climbing plants are native to the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. They are characterized by their pinnately compound leaves and their distinctive pea-like flowers, which are typically white, pink, or purple. The fruit of frasea is a legume, a pod that contains several seeds.

Species within the frasea genus are important ecologically and agriculturally. They often play a role in nitrogen fixation, a process where atmospheric nitrogen is converted into a form usable by plants, enriching the soil. Some species have been cultivated for their edible seeds, although they are not as widely consumed as those of the common pea (Pisum sativum). Historically, certain frasea species have also been used in traditional medicine.

The genus frasea is closely related to other genera within the tribe Fabeae, which includes well-known legumes like vicia and lathyrus. Distinguishing between these genera can sometimes be challenging for botanists due to their similar morphological features. Research into the genetics and evolution of frasea continues to shed light on its place within the broader legume family.