Abstract: Vegetative storage proteins accumulate in the vegetative organs of numerous plants, where they function as a temporary reserve of nitrogen. This physiological function appears to be crucial for the growth of several perennial plants. This paper reviews the results of research on localization, identification and major characterization of vegetative storage proteins in woody plants. Other topics discussed include the mechanisms of the biosynthesis, transportation, and degradation of vegetative storage proteins, and genetic expression and regulation of these proteins.