The soybean plant is a leguminous crop native to East Asia, primarily grown for its edible beans. It typically grows between 1 to 4 feet tall and has trifoliate leaves, which means each leaf is divided into three smaller leaflets. The plant produces small, white to purple flowers that develop into pods containing the beans.
Soybeans are rich in protein and oil, making them a valuable source of nutrition for both humans and livestock. They are used in various products, including tofu, soy milk, and soy sauce. Additionally, soybeans play a crucial role in crop rotation, improving soil health by fixing nitrogen.