Pods & fruit
Pigeon pea
Deep-rooted warm-climate shrub producing edible peas.
Sowing & planting windows in Australia
Planting timing varies by broad Australian gardening zone. Local weather, unusual seasons and your garden’s microclimate can shift timing.
Cool
Sow direct · Oct–Dec
Core months: October, November, December
Temperate
Sow direct · Sep–Dec
Core months: September, October, November, December
Subtropical
Sow direct · Aug–Mar
Core months: January, February, March, August, September, October, November, December
Tropical
Sow direct · All year
Core months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Arid
Sow direct · Sep–Nov
Core months: September, October, November
Getting started
Direct sow into warm soil where the shrub can remain for several seasons.
The right conditions
Full sun, good drainage and a frost-protected site; established plants tolerate some drought.
As it grows
Water to establish, prune after harvest to manage size and support heavy branches if needed.
Ready to harvest
Pick green peas for fresh use or allow pods to dry for pulse seed.
Important cautions
Cook mature seed thoroughly and keep the potentially large shrub clear of paths.
Plant guidance: Desk-reviewed under the approved horticultural-synthesis method; not field-tested. Planting windows are a guide rather than a rule.