''Macroptilium supinum'' is a species of flowering plant in the
known by the common name supine bean. It is native to Mexico, with its distribution extending north into the US state of
Arizona.
[''Macroptilium supinum''.]
Center for Plant Conservation.
This perennial herb has stems that creep across the ground, growing from a
tuber. The leaves are each made up of three lance-shaped leaflets up to 8 cm long. Two types of flowers are seen. Aboveground flowers are salmon-colored. Other flowers grow underground or under debris, do not open, and self-fertilize. They are yellow and salmon-colored and smaller than the opening flowers. The fruit is a
legume
A legume () is a plant in the family Fabaceae (or Leguminosae), or the fruit or seed of such a plant. When used as a dry grain, the seed is also called a pulse. Legumes are grown agriculturally, primarily for human consumption, for livestock f ...
pod up to 1.5 cm long.
[''Macroptilium supinum''.]
Arizona Native Plant Society. Most seeds are produced in fruits that develop underground.
[
This plant grows in grassland and oak woodland habitat. It is threatened by herbivory by rodents and cattle. Grazing also causes habitat degradation.][
]
References
External links
USDA Plants Profile
{{Taxonbar, from=Q6725583
Phaseoleae