Cajanus cajan

The pigeon pea originated in India then through Africa to the Caribbean, cultivated for its food crop and as a green manure. Now widely cultivated in tropical regions throughout the world. The peas can be eaten fresh like garden peas or dried like lentils.

The plant is a short lived perennial shrub growing to 2 or 3 metres, living for about five years in tropical conditions. The fruits are pea like pods, containing four to five seeds. Best grown as a greenhouse or polytunnel as an annual crop in the UK with heat early in the year to encourage growth. Alternatively grow in pots under glass and transplant outside in a warm sheltered position in full sun after all frosts have finished.