Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)
Care, watering, light and tips for Pigeon pea on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Pigeon pea
Cajanus cajan, also known as pigeon pea, is a perennial leguminous shrub from the Fabaceae family, prized for its nutritious edible seeds. It features green foliage and yellow or reddish flowers that develop into pods, making it an excellent choice for edible gardens or as a cover crop in warm climates. Its robust and productive appearance makes it a functional and attractive addition to agricultural or permaculture landscapes.
Native range
East and Central Sub-Saharan Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and fruiting, at least 6 hours daily. It is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering during flowering and pod development, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, and is not demanding regarding nutrients, although poor soil can be enriched with compost. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Pigeon pea
- Warning signs
- Yellow, dropped, or wilted leaves; immature pods not developing.
- First aid
- Check soil drainage and moisture. Prune dry or diseased branches.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, heavy soil, or lack of direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It needs good drainage and plenty of light.