Legumes of the World is the first authoritative, comprehensive illustrated guide, describing and illustrating all 727 genera. Legumes contribute enormously to the world"s economy, through food and drink, pharmaceuticals, medicines, biotechnology, building and construction, textiles, furniture, horticulture, paper and pulp, fertilizers, chemicals, pest control and ecotourism. This book lavishly illustrates legume diversity and spotlights as yet untapped economic potential by placing genera in a modern systematic framework. It will thus appeal to the professional, student and amateur alike, across a broad range of disciplines.