Macrotyloma

Macrotyloma is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. The genus includes several herbaceous annuals and short-lived perennials native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. The best-known member is Macrotyloma uniflorum, commonly called horse gram or kulthi dal, which is widely cultivated for its seeds and used as a pulse and forage crop.

Taxonomy and characteristics: Macrotyloma was delineated to classify species previously placed in other genera such as Dolichos. Members of Macrotyloma are generally herbaceous and may be vining or bushy, producing pods that contain one or more seeds. The genus encompasses species used for grain, fodder, and soil improvement.

Uses and nutrition: Seeds are high in protein and minerals and are used in traditional cuisines as a staple or flavoring component, notably in South Asia. Beyond human food, the plants are also valued as livestock forage and as cover crops that help improve soil structure and nutrient cycling. Anti-nutritional factors present in some seeds can be reduced by processing and cooking.

Agronomy and ecology: Macrotyloma species are typically drought-tolerant and adapted to poor soils, making them suitable for low-input farming systems. They fix atmospheric nitrogen in symbiosis with rhizobia, contributing to soil fertility. The crops often have short growing seasons and can be grown as primary crops, intercrops, or rotations with cereals.

See also: horse gram; Dolichos; legume crops.