legumatea

Legumatea, also known as the Fabales, is an order of flowering plants in the rosid clade, containing the suborder Faboideae, which includes the legume family Fabaceae. This order is characterized by its distinctive flowers, which typically have five petals and ten stamens. The order is named after the legume family, which includes many economically important plants such as peas, beans, lentils, and soybeans.

The Fabaceae family is one of the largest plant families, with over 750 genera and 19,000 known species. Legumes are known for their ability to fix nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia bacteria, which can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. This process, known as nitrogen fixation, is crucial for plant growth and soil fertility.

Legumatea plants are often recognized by their distinctive pod-like fruits, which contain seeds. The seeds are often edible and have been a staple food source in many cultures throughout history. The legume family also includes many ornamental plants, such as clover and wisteria, which are valued for their aesthetic appeal.

The order Fabales is further divided into several suborders, including the Mimosoideae, Caesalpinioideae, and Detarioideae. Each of these suborders contains distinct families and genera, contributing to the diverse range of plants found within the Legumatea order.