Pandanus Baptistii

Pandanus plant  is a versatile tropical plant valued for its ornamental appeal, fragrant leaves, and practical uses 

Profile of Pandanus

• Botanical Name: Pandanus spp. (over 700 species)

• Family: Pandanaceae

• Common Names: Screw Pine, Pandan, Kewda, Thatch Screwpine

• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands, and Madagascar

 Appearance

• Growth Habit:

  • Small trees or large shrubs, some species grow up to 10–15 m tall.

  • Characteristic spiral arrangement of leaves (hence “screw pine”).

• Leaves:

  • Long, narrow, sword-shaped, often spiny along edges.

  • Green, leathery, spirally arranged around the stem.

• Roots:

  • Develop stilt roots (aerial, prop-like roots) for support.

• Flowers & Fruits:

  • Male flowers: fragrant, often used in perfumes (like Pandanus odorifer).

  • Female plants produce large, pineapple-like fruits (edible in some species).

Growing & Care

• Sun Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade.

• Soil: Sandy, well-draining soil; tolerates coastal conditions.

• Watering: Moderate; drought and salt-tolerant once established.

Fertilizer

• Balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10:10:10 or 14:14:14 NPK) → for steady growth.

• Nitrogen-rich fertilizer → promotes lush green leaf growth (important since Pandanus is grown mainly for foliage).

• Potassium (K) → strengthens leaves and improves aroma in Pandanus amaryllifolius (culinary pandan).

• Organic options: Well-rotted cow manure, compost, vermicompost, seaweed extract, fish emulsion.

Uses & Benefits

• Culinary:

  • Leaves of Pandanus amaryllifolius (Pandan leaf) used in Asian cooking for aroma and flavor.

• Medicinal:

  • Traditional uses for treating headaches, arthritis, and skin problems.

• Ornamental:

  • Planted in landscapes for tropical appeal and unique root structure.

• Cultural/Practical:

  • Leaves woven into mats, baskets, and thatching.

  • Fragrant flowers (Kewda) used in perfumes and attars in India.