Pigeon Pea, Cajanus Cajan

Fast growing and very versatile, pigeon pea is a leguminous shrub to about 3 m. The peas are a staple food in Indian dhal, the whole plant is used as nutritious animal fodder. Pigeon pea can be frequently pruned for mulch and the plant is a good nurse plant in your food forest. Pigeon pea also makes a good windbreak.

Pigeon pea grows 2-5 meters and is only marginally frost hardy. It likes full sun and it does not require fertile soil.