Description: Herbs.
Leaves alternate, pinnately 3-foliolate; stipules gland-like or minute; stipels usually not present.
Inflorescences axillary racemes; bracts minute; bracteoles ± circular, caducous. Calyx 2-lipped. Standard rounded, reflexed; keel incurved, sometimes beaked. Stamens diadelphous; anthers uniform. Ovary many-ovuled; style beardless; stigma terminal.
Pod ± compressed, oblong, sometimes turgid, sutures winged; seeds without obvious aril.
Distribution and occurrence: World: c. 50 species pantropical & subtropical regions. Australia: 5 species (3 species native), Qld, N.S.W., N.T., W.A.
Text by C. Gardner Taxon concept:
One species in NSW: Canavalia rosea |
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