Leuconostoc spp. is a genus of gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic, heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria (LAB), and it is the dominant microflora in many kinds of traditional fermented products. Therefore Leuconostoc spp. can be used in food, chemical, medicinal and other fields. This article reviews the current status of research on the separation, screening and characteristics of Leuconostoc. Moreover, recent progress in the genomic, proteomic and metabolic study of Leuconostoc as well as its application is summarized. The aim is to provide a theoretical basis for better application of Leuconostoc in industrial production and our life.