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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POV: Your next outdoor adventure.
Plan your visit to Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Get tickets at the link in bio.
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It`s time! 🎉
The Wallace Rose Garden is in bloom right now. Make the time to stop and smell the roses with a visit to Boyce Thompson Arboretum. 🌹
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Explore a world of trees at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. This Arbor Day, we hope you’ll think of Boyce Thompson Arboretum and donate to keep our trees thriving.
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Trail side of the Children`s Garden at Boyce Thompson Arboretum is one of many great places to spot flowers during bloom season. Where are your favorite blooms in the garden?
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Nothing attracts pollinators like the smell of Texas Mountain Laurel... and, of course, we enjoy it too 😊
Experience the beauty of spring at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Plan your visit at the link in bio.
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The Arboretum is turning into a fairytale with the blooming of Lady Banks Roses (𝘙𝘰𝘴𝘢 𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘦). The sight of them cascading over Magma Ridge in the Wing Memorial Herb Garden is truly magic.
Step into the fantasy. Plan your visit at the link in bio.
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Celebrate the return of slightly cooler temperatures with a trip outdoors this weekend. Boyce Thompson Arboretum is open daily, 7 am - 5pm (last admission at 4 pm).
Plan your visit at the link in bio.
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Two April celebrations, one shared legacy.
Founder’s Day on April 1st reminds us of the bold vision of Colonel Boyce Thompson that planted the first seeds of what is now Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Arbor Day on April 24th reminds us why that vision still matters. Honor both by making a gift that protects our tree collections, supports education, and ensures that the Arboretum continues to thrive for generations to come.
Support a continued legacy. Donate at the link in bio.
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