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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Pandanus utilis, commonly known as the Screw Pine (despite not being a true pine), is a spectacular tropical plant native to Madagascar and coastal regions of the Indian Ocean. Its instantly recognisable for its spirally arranged, sword-like leaves and prominent aerial stilt roots, giving it a wild, primeval appearance.
The name screw pine comes from the way its long, leathery leaves spiral around the stem in a helical pattern. Mature plants develop aerial prop roots that support the trunk above ground, adding to its architectural character. Outdoors in the tropics it can grow into a large, tree-like form, but in the UK it is typically kept as a striking conservatory or glasshouse specimen, or as a large container plant in well-lit interiors.
This is a bold, sculptural plant for experienced growers or those looking for something truly eye-catching and unusual.
Requires bright, indirect light or filtered full sun.
Indoors: place near a south- or west-facing window with ample daylight.
Outdoors in summer: can be moved to a sheltered, sunny patio.
Insufficient light may cause leaf drop and loss of variegation or form.
Water thoroughly when the top 35cm of soil feels dry.
In spring and summer: water every 710 days, depending on temperature and light.
In winter: reduce watering to every 23 weeks.
Never allow it to sit in water stilt roots are prone to rot if kept wet for long periods.
Prefers moderate to high humidity (5070%).
If grown indoors, increase humidity with:
A humidifier,
Pebble trays,
Occasional misting (avoid misting into crown or rosettes to prevent rot).
Thrives in warm conditions: 1830C is ideal.
Not frost-hardy. In the UK, it must be overwintered indoors.
Minimum safe temperature: 10C.
Avoid cold draughts, and do not place near uninsulated windows in winter.
Requires well-draining, aerated soil.
Ideal mix: 2 parts houseplant compost, 1 part orchid bark or perlite, and 1 part coarse sand or grit.
In pots, ensure large drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Feed every 46 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser.
A slow-release fertiliser applied in spring also works well.
Do not feed in winter when growth slows.
Remove old or damaged leaves at the base using sharp scissors or secateurs.
Take care: leaf margins are very sharp and saw-toothed wear gloves when handling.
Regularly wipe or rinse leaves to remove dust and maintain the plants dramatic appearance.
Repot every 23 years or when the plant becomes root-bound or unstable due to prop roots.
Choose a heavy, wide-based pot to support the top-heavy crown.
Allow prop roots to develop above soil level this is normal and part of the plants structure.
Generally pest-resistant, but may attract:
Mealybugs, scale, or spider mites in dry or dusty conditions.
Overwatering can cause root or stem rot, especially at the base.
Leaf tips may brown if humidity is too low or if fluoride/salts build up from tap water.
Mildly toxic if ingested; sap may also cause irritation.
Leaf edges are extremely sharp keep out of reach of pets and children, and avoid placing near walkways.
Let the prop roots grow naturally above the soil they are a key ornamental feature.
Ideal for tropical-themed interiors, conservatories, or greenhouses.
Position where the plant can be viewed from multiple angles to showcase its spiral leaf arrangement and architectural form.
