Contents: A comprehensive introduction focussing on the classification of the legume family. -- A detailed account of the bibliography of the famuly. -- All 727 genera (representing c. 19.325 species) of Leguminosae systematically arranged, using the traditional taxonomic framework woven into the new phylogenetic system. -- Over 1.100 photographs, paintings and line drawings. -- Text contributed by four editors, together with 20 internationally renowned legume scientits. -- Each generic account includes main synonyms, number of species, geographical range, etymology, ecology, phylogenetic notes and economic uses. -- Full references. -- Comprehensive illustration, scientific and vernacular names indexes