What is Vigna unguiculata ssp. cylindrica?

Vigna unguiculata ssp. cylindrica, commonly called catjang or cylinder cowpea, is a subspecies of the cowpea legume. It is characterised by cylindrical, upright seed pods and a compact, bushy growth habit. It is grown across tropical Asia and is part of the official catalog of ayurvedic medicinal plants in Sri Lanka.

What are the medicinal uses of catjang in Ayurveda?

In Sri Lankan Ayurveda, catjang seeds are considered cooling and nourishing. Traditional uses include preparations for digestive support, mild urinary conditions, and post-illness recovery. Leaf and seed paste poultices have also been applied for minor skin conditions in rural folk medicine.

Is catjang the same as cowpea?

Catjang is a subspecies of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), not a separate species. The main distinguishing feature is its erect, cylindrical seed pods. Other subspecies of Vigna unguiculata include the black-eyed pea and the yard-long bean, which have different pod and seed characteristics.

Can you eat Vigna unguiculata ssp. cylindrica?

Yes, catjang is fully edible. The dried seeds are used in curries and porridges, the young pods can be cooked as a vegetable, and the leaves are sometimes prepared as a green. It is a nutritious source of plant protein, dietary fibre, and iron.

Where is catjang grown in Sri Lanka?

Catjang is most commonly cultivated in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones, where it suits the seasonal rainfall patterns and well-drained soils. It is often grown as a rotation crop after rice harvest and is found on smallholder plots throughout the North Central, Northern, and Eastern provinces.

How do I identify catjang plants?

Catjang plants are compact and bushy, typically reaching 30–80 cm in height. The pods are short, cylindrical, and held erect in clusters near the branch tips, which distinguishes them from the drooping pods of other cowpea types. Seeds are small and can be white, cream, or brown with dark markings.

What is the difference between catjang and mung bean?

Both belong to the genus Vigna and are common in Sri Lankan cooking and medicine, but they are distinct species. Mung bean (Vigna radiata) generally has larger, greener pods that hang downward and slightly larger seeds. Catjang (ssp. cylindrica) has shorter, erect pods and tends to be higher in iron. Nutritionally, they are broadly comparable.