Family: Pandanaceae
Common Name: Screw Pine

Occurring mostly in countries around the Pacific and Indian Oceans, but not the Americas, this group of large plants has many practical uses for the indigenous peoples of these regions. The leaves are used for thatching, basketry, mats, cordage and chair seats, while some species provide edible fruits. Recognized by their stilt roots and large rosettes of vaguely palm-like leaves, they are a common sight on tropical coasts, although some species occur naturally in forests. In their habitats, these trees may grow between 6 and 15 m (20-50 ft) high, becoming strongly branched with age. They have long, sword-like leaves that bend and droop at the ends. Male and female flowers are produced on separate plants, so trees of both sexes are needed to produce the large, pineapple-like fruits. Outside the tropics or subtropics, grow pandanus for its foliage as a house plant or in a warm greenhouse or conservatory.

Species

Not all are available outside their native countries.

P. cookii, from Queensland in Australia, grows 6-9 m (20-30 ft) tall , with slender, wide-spreading branches and sparse, fairly narrow leaves, 1-2 m (3-6 ft) long. The egg-shaped fruit is a dull, deep pink when ripe.

P. monticola, from high rainfall forests of northern Queensland, is an unusual species, with very slender, scrambling branches and long, very narrow, deep green leaves. It has yellowish fruits which are different from those of other Australian species.

P. pedunculatus, from eastern Australia and south-western Pacific islands, is similar in habit to P. tectorius.

P. tectorius occurs mainly in seashore areas of Southeast Asia and Polynesia, although it is sometimes found in coastal Queensland and on nearby Barrier Reef islands. A much-branched, spreading plant, it grows to a height and width of around 8 m (26 ft). The fruits are an orange-red colour when ripe. Two variegated cultivars which make good house or conservatory plants are 'Sanderi', which has leaves with a narrow, golden yellow, central stripe, and 'Veitchii', which has leaves with white-striped margins.

Cultivation

Under glass or in the home, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost. Plants need good bright light (but shade from direct strong sun), and a very humid atmosphere. Propagate from seed sown as soon as available (newly ripened seed is best) and germinate at 21°C (70°F). Soak seed in tepid water for a day before sowing. Alternatively, propagate from suckers in spring.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 to tropical.