Sulla coronaria, a Multifunctional Legume for Climate-Smart Agriculture and the Green Economy: A Review

Climate change threatens crop yields and farming profitability, especially in drought-prone regions, requiring a transition to climate-resilient farming systems. Concurrently, growing demand for health-promoting and bio-based materials is creating new market opportunities for farmers. Sulla (Sulla coronaria Medik; syn. Hedysarum coronarium L.), a Mediterranean forage crop, may represent a strategic resource for sustainable intensification by simultaneously providing high-value commodities and a wide range of ecosystem services. This review explores the multifunctional potential of sulla following a holistic approach and is structured in thematic chapters, exploring: i. agronomy, ii. ecosystem services and agroecological value, iii. plant biochemical profile, iv. emerging applications for the bio-based industry, v. genetic diversity (including rhizobia diversity) and breeding perspectives for target environments and end-use. A SWOT analysis synthesizes strengths, research gaps and bottlenecks hindering large-scale adoption and valorization. The review proposes a strategic framework matching research priority with specific, actionable goals. The review aims to increase awareness of the multifaceted value of sulla as a promising model legume to increase sustainability in agriculture, promote product diversification and farming profitability, while assuring important ecosystem benefits.