A taxonomic revision of Rafnia Thunb. (Fam. Fabaceae, Subfam . Papili onoideae) is presented in which 21 species are recognised. The relative value of the taxonomic characters is discussed. An electron microscopy study of the seed surface, pollen grains and several sexual characters has been undertaken. Two keys are included , one using vegetative and floral characters and the other using ultrastructure of the testa. Each species description is accompanied by illustrations and a distribution map. Historical and ecological notes on the genus are given