longicarpus

Longicarpus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, commonly known as the pea family. The genus name comes from Latin words meaning "long" and "fruit," referring to the elongated pods characteristic of these plants. Species within Longicarpus are typically trees or shrubs found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in the Americas. They are often found in dry or arid environments.

These plants are notable for their adaptations to drought conditions, such as deep root systems and reduced leaf surface area. The flowers are usually yellow or orange and are arranged in racemes or panicles. After flowering, they produce distinctively long, flattened seed pods. The wood of some Longicarpus species is dense and durable, and has been used for construction and furniture making. Some species also have traditional medicinal uses in the regions where they grow, though scientific validation of these uses may vary. The ecological role of Longicarpus includes providing habitat and food for local wildlife, and contributing to soil enrichment through nitrogen fixation, a common trait of legumes.