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 Seed Bank Accessions:
DELEP’s Seed Bank Accessions lists available seeds - To Request Seeds:
- 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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See the desert in bloom at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. The yuccas are now bursting with tall stalks of creamy white flowers—an unmistakable sign of spring in the Sonoran Desert. These blooms bring beauty to the landscape and attract pollinators across the gardens.
Visit soon to see this seasonal display at its peak.
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Discover what’s prowling in the borderlands! Join us May 8th for Branching Out: “That’s an Ocelot of Data” with Kinley Ragan from the Phoenix Zoo. Learn about rare wildlife camera findings from the Atascosa Complex, home to ocelots, black bears, and more.
Pre-registration required:
https://7830.blackbaudhosting.com/7830/Branching-Out-Speaker-Series-08May2026.
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Discover your artistic side surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Boyce Thompson Arboretum. From seasoned artists to first-time painters, everyone is welcome to create in this peaceful desert oasis. All materials are provided, just bring your imagination.
Reserve your spot today: https://7830.blackbaudhosting.com/7830/Paint-at-the-Arboretum-Wildflowers
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Start your day at 6 am surrounded by nature’s beauty! Add a visit to Boyce Thompson Arboretum to your morning routine. Wander scenic trails, enjoy cooler temperatures, and gift yourself a peaceful start to your day
Plan your visit at: https://btarboretum.org/
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Step behind the scenes on an exclusive Members-Only Walk with Executive Director, Kim Gray. Stroll through the trails as you hear about the Arboretum’s future, exciting research initiatives, and upcoming projects, all while enjoying a rare opportunity to ask questions and connect directly with our leadership.
Free for Members | Space is limited and advance registration is required
Register now to reserve your spot and enjoy this special members-only experience.
https://btarboretum.org/event/members-only-walk-with-the-executive-director-3/
New to Member Month this year, members save 20% off plants for the entire month of May!
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Join us this May for Sunrise Hikes!
Start your summer with our Docents on a family friendly educational hike! On this sunrise hike, learn about our unique collection plants, Sonoran Desert ecology, and how our plants survive in extreme conditions. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, sun protective clothing, and bring plenty of water.
Tours are subject to availability. Registration is first come, first serve. To register for a tour or walk, sign up at the Welcome Center. Reservations are NOT accepted.
Tour size: 15 people
Free with admission
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Add a visit to Boyce Thompson Arboretum to your summer morning routine.
Through May, the Arboretum is open 6 am - 3 pm, Monday - Friday, and 6 am - 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday (Last admission 1 hour before close).
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The desert is vibrant and full of life
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