Fabaceae

Fabaceae is a family of eudicots. It is commonly referred to as the pea family.

Identifying Characteristics

Category Characteristic
Clade Eudicot
Floral Formula Variable
Woody? Herbaceous (No)
Trees (Yes)
Leaves Attachment: Alternate
Subdivision: Compound
Position: Cauline
Conspicuous stipules
Flowers Symmetry: Bilateral or Radial
Growth: Bisexual
Petals Pea flower structure or similar
Ovary Superior
Inflorescence Racemic
Numbers Variable
Fruits Legumes
Mostly dehiscent; some are indehiscent

Distinguishing Subfamilies

Subfamily Flower Characteristics
Mimosoideae Radial
Papillionoideae Bilateral
Pea Flower Structure
Connate petals, possible sepal connation
Caesalpinioideae Bilateral to Radial
Similar to Pea Flower Structure
Varied fusion in sepals
Subfamily Leaf Subdivision
Mimosoideae Twice pinnately compound
Papillionoideae Compound
Caesalpinioideae Simple
Subfamily Stamens
Mimosoideae Showy
Exserted
Unknown number
Free
Papillionoideae 10 stamens
Either
- Connate fusion with filaments
- or 9 are fused, with 1 free stamen
Caesalpinioideae 10 stamens