🌿Native Nature

Pigeon Pea

Cajanus cajan

Taxonomy

Kingdom: Plantae ›Phylum: Tracheophyta ›Class: Magnoliopsida ›Order: Fabales ›Family: Fabaceae ›Genus: Cajanus

About

The pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)and (arhar) is a perennial legume from the family Fabaceae. Since its domestication in India at least 3,500 years ago, its seeds have become a common food grain in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. It is consumed on a large scale mainly in south Asia and is a major source of protein for the population of that subcontinent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of Pigeon Pea?
The scientific name of Pigeon Pea is Cajanus cajan.
What is the conservation status of Pigeon Pea?
The Pigeon Pea has a conservation status of Not Evaluated.
What kingdom does Pigeon Pea belong to?
Pigeon Pea belongs to the kingdom Plantae.
What phylum does Pigeon Pea belong to?
Pigeon Pea belongs to the phylum Tracheophyta.
What class does Pigeon Pea belong to?
Pigeon Pea belongs to the class Magnoliopsida.
What order does Pigeon Pea belong to?
Pigeon Pea belongs to the order Fabales.
What family does Pigeon Pea belong to?
Pigeon Pea belongs to the family Fabaceae.
What genus does Pigeon Pea belong to?
Pigeon Pea belongs to the genus Cajanus.

In the News

In Malawi, one woman’s farm shows what’s possible with land and support

CHIRADZULU, Malawi — Diana Sitima’s farm on the outskirts of Malawi’s commercial capital, Blantyre, is both example and an exception. Where neighboring farmers have planted mostly maize for food and for sale in nearby markets, people drive out to buy sweet potato, pigeon peas and vegetables, bananas and avocado, and eggs produced on Sitima’s 3.5-hectare […]

Mongabay · 6/4/2026