Stylosanthes

Stylosanthes is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. Commonly known as stylo, these plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas and Africa. They are herbaceous or shrubby perennials, often with trifoliate leaves. The flowers are typically yellow or orange, and arranged in spikes.

Species within Stylosanthes are widely recognized for their value as forage crops, particularly in pasture improvement. They are highly palatable to livestock and are a good source of protein. Many species are also nitrogen-fixing, which enriches the soil and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers. This makes them an important component of sustainable agricultural systems, especially in tropical and subtropical environments where soil fertility can be a limiting factor.

Several Stylosanthes species have been introduced and successfully cultivated in various parts of the world, including Australia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, for grazing purposes. Their adaptability to a range of soil types, including poor and acidic soils, contributes to their widespread use. However, some species can also become weedy in certain conditions. Research continues to explore the potential of Stylosanthes for further agricultural and ecological applications.