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Pandanus utilis commonly known as the Screw Pine is a striking tropical plant native to Madagascar. Despite its common name, its not a true pine. This plant is grown for its dramatic, architectural form and is often used as a landscape specimen in warm climates or as an indoor ornamental in temperate zones.
Common Name: Screw Pine
Botanical Name: Pandanus utilis
Family: Pandanaceae
Origin: Madagascar
Growth Habit: Evergreen, monocot tree or shrub
Height: Can grow up to 610 m (2033 ft) in the wild, but usually much smaller in pots
Spread: Up to 46 m (1320 ft) outdoors
Leaves: Long, sword-like, spirally arranged, up to 2 m (6 ft) in length, often edged with spines
Trunk: Often bears prop roots, giving it a distinctive, stilted appearance
Flowers: Dioecious (separate male and female plants); female plants may produce pineapple-like fruit
Indoor Use: Grown for its bold, tropical foliage
Outdoors: Full sun to partial shade
Indoors: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Tolerates some direct sun, especially morning or late afternoon. Avoid deep shade, which can cause leggy growth.
Ideal Temperature: 1827C (6580F)
Hardiness: USDA zones 1012 (Not frost tolerant)
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity; misting helps in dry indoor conditions.
Watering Frequency: Water when the top 25 cm (12 in) of soil is dry.
Tip: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid: Water sitting in the crown of the plant, as this may lead to rot.
Soil Type: Well-draining mix. A loamy soil with added sand or perlite is ideal.
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.07.0)
Repotting: Every 23 years or when root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage.
During growing season (springsummer): Feed every 24 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser.
Autumnwinter: Feed sparingly or not at all, depending on growth activity.
Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed.
Wear gloves the leaf margins have spines which can be quite sharp.
Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and keep them healthy-looking.
By offsets (suckers): These grow near the base and can be separated and potted individually.
Air layering: Also possible for more mature plants.
Seeds: Rare in cultivation and slow to germinate.
Common Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects
Diseases: Root rot (from overwatering), leaf spot in humid, poorly ventilated environments
Prevention: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Toxicity: Not considered toxic, but the sharp spines along the leaves can cause skin irritation. Handle with care.
Pet Safety: Generally safe, but the leaf edges can pose a physical hazard to curious pets.
Use a heavy pot to balance the top-heavy nature of mature plants.
Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth.
Humidity trays or room humidifiers can help maintain ideal conditions indoors.
Ideal for large, bright indoor spaces or conservatories.