Pigeon peas, gandules, gunjo pea, tropical green pea

Pigeon peas, also known as gandules, are a short-lived perennial legume that thrives in the tropics and subtropics. Cajanus cajun originated in India but is a popular favorite in Caribbean cuisine as well.

Pigeon Pea Benefits

  • Fast-growing, semi-perennial offers up to 5 years of food production
  • Fixes nitrogen with long tap roots
  • Provides a nutritious fodder for animals
  • Excellent crop-and-drop plant and compost booster
  • Provides prolific yellow and red flowers that bees adore.

Pigeon Pea Description

Cajanus cajun can live up to five years in the absence of a hard frost and is hardy in zones 9 through 15. It can grow up to 12 feet high over the spring and summer, providing shade to understory plantings.

Because of its many benefits and uses, It is considered a favorite permaculture plant for the tropics and subtropics.

The “peas” themselves can be eaten green or allowed to dry on the plant for storage. The dried beans feature a warm nuttiness with a hint of umami not provided by other dry beans. The dried peas are an excellent source of protein, providing 44 grams of protein per 1-cup serving.

Pigeon peas bloom in early spring and late fall and will produce a regular harvest between November and April.

You can cut them back in May to control height.

Purchase Pigeon Peas

buy seeds
Species Name: Cajanus cajun
Common name(s): Pigeon peas, gandules, gunjo pea
Defining Characteristics: Fast-growing shrubs up to 12 feet tall with bright yellow flowers
Temperature requirement:Tropical plant, hardy in zones 9 to 15
Watering frequency: Water daily until germination occurs and plant is established then provide water weekly
Lighting: Full sun to partial shade
Soil type:Tolerant of poor soils
Growth rate: Fast growth rate depending on conditions.
Height: From 6 to 12 feet tall
Origin:India
USDA Hardiness Zone: 9 to 11
Additional Notes:Plant any time of year in frost-free zones. Add compost and mulch yearly to improve production