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
#1Arb
Tag us on Instagram with
@btarboretum #1Arb
Happy New Year!
We’re open today, 8 AM–5 PM (last admission 4 PM).
Start 2026 surrounded by nature. Get tickets at the link in bio.
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizona #aloe
Make a trip to Boyce Thompson Arboretum part of your 2026 bucket list.
Plan your visit at the link in bio.
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizona #coati
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a cherished place for so many, each with their own connection to its beauty and purpose. As 2025 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on all we’ve accomplished together. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we are thrilled to share that we are 80% of the way to our calendar year-end goal!
We are deeply grateful for the incredible support that makes our work possible. If you haven’t made your year-end, tax-deductible gift yet, there’s still time to help us continue to preserve, inspire, and grow.
You can support the Arboretum at the link in bio.
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizonachamber
Start the year off right with a guided meditation walk through Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Forest Bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, is the practice of spending time in nature for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness. During this class, participants will be led on a 2-and-a-half hour walk through the century-old trees of the Arboretum with a series of guided “invitations”, closing with a tea ceremony.
Date: January 3, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am and 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Members: $32
Non-members: $40
Register for Forest Bathing at the link in bio.
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizona #forestbathing #guidedmeditation
As 2025 comes to an end, we`re looking back at what a wonderful year it`s been. Take a look at some of our favorite Boyce Thompson Arboretum photos and memories from 2025.
What`s your favorite memory from the Arboretum?
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizona
Calling all dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts
Bring your furry friend and enjoy a fun-filled day at Tails & Trails, where adventure meets wagging tails. Don`t miss out on these activities:
- Dog adoptions with @pinalcountyanimalcontrol and @barbsdogrescue
- Docent lead dog hikes
- Pet-related vendors
- Food/Beverage Trucks
- Puppy Yoga (Pre-registration Required)
- Dog training workshop (Pre-registration Required)
Date: January 10, 2026
Time: 10 am - 3 pm
Tails & Trails is free with admission! With additional items and activities available for purchase.
Special thanks to our event sponsor @evurgentpet
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizona #dogs #tailsandtrails
Rainy days are some of the most beautiful Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
The last couple days brought some additional rain to our desert oasis. Winter rains are vital to the desert, replenishing water supplies and providing necessary resources for plants and wildlife.
Plan your next visit at the link in bio.
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #superiorarizona #arizonarain
From everyone here at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Happy Holidays!
Thank you for all of the support and love you have shown the Arboretum this past year. You have made 2025 truly amazing.
The Arboretum is closed today, but we will be back to welcome you tomorrow!
#btarboretum #boycethompsonarboretum #boycethompson #superiorarizona