Welcome to the Desert Legume Program (DELEP) Discover the mission of DELEP, a program committed to preserving legume biodiversity from arid and semi-arid regions around the globe. Exciting Update: The Desert Legume Program is now proudly administered by Boyce Thompson Arboretum! This program, previously a partnership between the University of Arizona and BTA, made a significant transition in summer 2024 when its invaluable seedbank, the heart of DELEP, relocated to Boyce Thompson Arboretum. For seed requests or inquiries, contact us directly at [email protected]. Join us in protecting and celebrating legume biodiversity!
About the Desert Legume Program (DELEP): Preserving Global Legume Biodiversity
The Desert Legume Program (DELEP) is dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of Fabaceae (Leguminosae), the third-largest family of vascular plants, with a strong presence in the floras of arid and semi-arid regions. Despite their significance, wild legumes from dry regions remain understudied in terms of their economic potential.
Legumes are second only to cereal grains in their importance to humanity, serving a wide array of purposes:
- Food crops and forage crops
- Green manure for sustainable agriculture
- Forestry and erosion control
- Sources of medicines and industrial compounds
- Shade, shelter, and landscape plants
Many legumes possess a unique ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a plant-usable form through symbiosis with specialized bacteria, making them vital for ecological health and sustainable farming practices.
DELEP Mission
- Seed Conservation: Acquire and preserve seeds of legumes native to the arid and semi-arid lands of the world.
- Research: Advance knowledge of the nature and utility of these species.
- Distribution: Share germplasm with professionals and individuals who have a legitimate interest.
- Conservation: Support desert legume biodiversity through in situ and ex situ preservation methods.
What DELEP Offers
DELEP serves individuals, businesses, academic institutions, and government agencies in Arizona and across the globe by providing:
- Seeds and plant material
- Expert information on desert legumes
- Access to seeds via direct contact, the USDA-ARS GRIN, and Botanic Gardens Conservation International
Facilities and Projects
- Seed Bank: A vital repository of desert legume germplasm.
- Field Evaluations and Seed Production Plots: For research and conservation.
- Taylor Legume Garden: Showcases the diversity and utility of desert legumes.
Join DELEP in our mission to protect and promote the incredible diversity and potential of legumes from some of the world’s most challenging environments. Contact us today to learn more or request seeds from our collection!
Request Seeds from the Desert Legume Program (DELEP)
DELEP offers seed samples, subject to availability, to individuals and organizations in the U.S. and internationally. Our mission is to support research, conservation, and educational projects by providing access to legume germplasm from arid and semi-arid regions.
How to Request Seeds
- Browse the Index Seminum:
DELEP’s Index Seminum lists available seeds and provides detailed instructions for requesting them. - Contact Us:
- Email: Until further updates, seed requests can be directed to [email protected]
- Request Through USDA-ARS GRIN:
- Use the USDA-ARS GRIN database for advanced seed requests.
- Select “Desert Legume Program – DLEG” as the repository under Advanced Search.
International Requests
- Due to costs and logistics, DELEP cannot provide phytosanitary certificates for international requests.
- If a phytosanitary certificate is required by your country, please submit your request directly through the USDA-ARS GRIN website.
DELEP DATABASES
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Did someone say strawberries 🍓
The Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo) is an evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean Basin and Western Europe. Despite its name, the plant is not closely related to the strawberries commonly eaten in the U.S.. The Strawberry Tree belongs to the Ericaceae family, same as cranberries and blueberries. The berries of the plant are edible, often being used in jams, liqueurs, and honey.
Explore edible and medicinal plants from all over the world at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Plan your visit at the link in bio.
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Join us this Saturday for Wet Felting
Craft a one-of-a-kind flower using the wet felting technique – an art form that uses soap, water, and friction to transform wool fibers into shapes or images. Guided by instructor @memorybradleyart, you’ll design a felted flower that’s uniquely yours, whether it be inspired by nature or imagination. No experience necessary!
Date: January 24, 2026
Time: 11 am - 2 pm
Members: $88
Non-members: $110 (Tickets include a take-home kit to continue your art at home!)
Class participants must be 16+ years of age. Register at the link in bio.
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A beautiful way to spend the day.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is open MLK Day, 8 am - 5 pm (last admission at 4 pm). Spend some time outdoors this weekend. Plan your visit at the link in bio.
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A Bridled Titmouse (Baeolophus wollweberi) spotted at Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Not often seen at the Arboretum, the Bridled Titmouse is native through Mexico and parts of Arizona and New Mexico. They prefer woodlands and higher elevation, making their sighting at the Arboretum a treat.
Photo by: @keithkuttler
Explore 200+ species of native birds at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Get tickets at https://btarboretum.org/.
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It may be winter, but cacti stay green year around!
Experience the beauty of every season at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Get tickets at the link in bio.
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It doesn`t quite feel like winter at Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
The warmer temperatures and rain this winter season have tricked some of our spring blooms into showing up early this year. A reminder that plants don`t follow the calendar.
Take a advantage of the beautiful weather and early blooms. Get tickets at the link in bio.
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Explore century old eucalyptus trees at Arizona`s oldest and largest botanical garden.
Get tickets at btarboretum.org.
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Chiricahua Leopard Frogs (Lithobates chiricahuensis) spotted at Ayer Lake.
The Chiricahua Leopard Frog gets its name from the spotted pattern on it back. Native to Arizona and New Mexico, these frogs are found in or near permanent and semi-permanent water sources.
Due to habitat loss, the Chiricahua Leopard Frog is endangered. Water sources like Ayer Lake and our Queen Creek Riparian area are important water sources that give this frog and other native species a home.
Plan your next visit to Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Get tickets at the link in bio.
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