The legume family is scientifically known as which of the following?

• A. Rosaceae
• B. Asteraceae
• C. Fabaceae
• D. Solanaceae

Answer: (C)

Fabaceae, also called Leguminosae, is the legume family. It includes familiar beans, peas, lentils, soy, chickpeas, and peanuts. The name comes from the typical fruit, a pod (a legume) that usually splits open along two seams to release seeds. Many members also form root nodules with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, enriching soil and helping plants grow in poorer soils. Flowers often show bilateral symmetry with a banner, wings, and keel in many species, though shapes vary. This combination of pod fruit and nitrogen-fixing capability distinguishes it from other groups. The other families listed—Rosaceae (roses and many fruit-bearing plants like apples), Asteraceae (composites like sunflowers and daisies), and Solanaceae (nightshades like tomatoes and potatoes)—have different fruits and flower structures.