Pandanus odorifer aka Fragrant Screw Pine

Pandanus odorifer typically grows 3-4 meters tall but can reach up to 9 meters in optimal conditions. It develops a branching, palm-like form with a flexuous trunk supported by distinctive aerial prop roots. The sword-shaped leaves can extend up to 2 meters in length. Growth rate is moderate, with plants reaching flowering age in 3-4 years. The branching habit creates a spreading canopy that can span several meters wide.

Pandanus odorifer is native to tropical coastal regions across East Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific. Its natural range includes China, the Indian subcontinent, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Polynesia, and tropical Australia. It thrives naturally on sandy coasts, in tidal forests, alongside riverbanks, and at the margins of mangrove habitats, often forming dense thickets.

Pandanus odorifer is remarkably adaptable to various soil types, performing well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as drainage is adequate. It tolerates a wide pH range from 6 to 10, with an optimal range of 6-7.5. In its natural coastal habitat, it grows in sandy beaches and even tolerates saline and brackish conditions. For container growing, use a well-draining potting mix; adding sand or perlite can improve drainage.

As a tropical species, Pandanus odorifer requires warm temperatures year-round and cannot tolerate frost. Maintain minimum temperatures of 13-16°C (55-60°F). It grows naturally in climates with annual lows of 20-25°C and highs of 28-35°C. In temperate regions, grow as a houseplant or in a heated greenhouse during cold months. The plant is hardy only in USDA zones 10-11.

Pandanus odorifer prefers moderate to high humidity, reflecting its tropical coastal origins. In its native habitat, it experiences annual rainfall of 1000-4600mm. When grown indoors, maintain humidity levels above 50% if possible. Regular misting, a pebble tray, or a nearby humidifier can help. The plant shows some drought tolerance once established but performs best with consistent moisture in the air.

Feed Pandanus odorifer with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring through fall) every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during winter when growth slows. A fertilizer formulated for tropical foliage plants works well. The plant is not particularly heavy-feeding but benefits from regular nutrition to support its large leaves and moderate growth rate.

Pandanus odorifer can be propagated by seeds, lateral shoot cuttings, or suckers. For seeds, pre-soak for 24 hours before sowing in warm, moist medium. Vegetative propagation via offshoots or suckers from the base of the trunk is most common and produces plants identical to the parent. Set cuttings in sand at 18-21°C (65-70°F); they root slowly and grow slowly initially. For fragrance production, only male plants are propagated since they produce the aromatic flowers.

Yes, Pandanus odorifer is renowned for its highly fragrant male flowers, which is reflected in its common name 'Fragrant Screw Pine' and species epithet 'odorifer' (meaning scent-bearing). The male inflorescences produce an intense, sweet aroma described as hyacinth-ylang ylang-like that can perfume an entire garden. These flowers are harvested to produce Kewra water and Kewda attar, prized in perfumery and South Asian cuisine. Note that female flowers are scentless, and each fragrant male flower lasts only about one day.

Pandanus odorifer is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. It typically blooms during the rainy season (summer in most regions), reaching flowering age at 3-4 years. Male inflorescences are larger and strongly fragrant, while female flowers are smaller and scentless. Female plants produce large, pineapple-shaped fruits with orange-red drupes.

Pandanus odorifer is primarily wind-pollinated (anemophilous), which is typical for species with minute, nectar-less, petal-less flowers. The plant can also reproduce asexually through apomixis (producing seeds without fertilization) and vegetatively via offshoots that detach from the base of the trunk. For fruit and seed production, both male and female plants must be present for cross-pollination to occur.

Pandanus odorifer requires minimal pruning. Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed by cutting them at the base. Important: branches lack dormant buds and will not resprout if cut back into old wood, so avoid heavy pruning of stems. The plant naturally develops an attractive branching form without intervention. Handle with care when pruning as the leaf margins and midrib have sharp, curved spines.

Pandanus odorifer can grow outdoors year-round only in frost-free tropical and subtropical climates (USDA zones 10-11). It thrives in coastal areas where it tolerates salt spray, strong winds, and even brackish water. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil. It makes an excellent choice for beachfront landscaping and provides coastal erosion protection with its dense root system. In cooler climates, grow in containers that can be moved indoors when temperatures drop below 13°C (55°F).

Repot Pandanus odorifer when roots begin to fill the container, typically every 2-3 years for actively growing specimens. Choose a sturdy, heavy pot as the plant can become top-heavy with its prop roots. Use well-draining potting mix and ensure adequate drainage holes. Spring is the best time to repot. Be careful of the spiny leaf margins during handling. The aerial prop roots that develop naturally help stabilize the plant.

Pandanus odorifer is generally robust and not particularly susceptible to serious pests or diseases. When grown indoors, watch for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects, especially in low humidity conditions. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues. The plant's tough, spiny leaves provide some natural protection against pests. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure adequate drainage.

Several parts of Pandanus odorifer are edible with proper preparation. The aromatic leaves impart a garlic-like flavor and are used to flavor foods. The pineapple-shaped fruit has sweet-smelling orange pulp but is very fibrous and must be cooked before consumption to eliminate a potentially harmful substance. Seeds contain 44-50% fat and 20-34% protein with a nutty flavor when raw or cooked, though extraction is labor-intensive. The inner leaf bases can be eaten raw. The plant has an edibility rating of 2 out of 5.

Pandanus odorifer has extensive traditional medicinal uses, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine. The root is used externally in sesame oil for joint pain and headaches, and internally (boiled in milk) for uterine health and vitality. Cold root infusions treat fever and measles. The leaf buds have diuretic properties and are applied to boils. Kewra essential oil from the flowers is used for headaches, earaches, and as a liniment for rheumatic pain. The plant is traditionally used for skin conditions, inflammation, and as a tonic. Medicinal rating: 2 out of 5.

Beyond food and medicine, Pandanus odorifer has valuable commercial and practical applications. The essential oil from male flower bracts, with its hyacinth-ylang ylang aroma, is used in high-end perfumery, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. 'Kewda attar' is a prized traditional perfume. The leaves yield tough, glossy white fibers used for mat-making, thatching, cordage, and even paper production. Root fibers are fashioned into brushes. The dense root system makes it excellent for coastal protection, erosion control, and land reclamation. Other uses rating: 3 out of 5.

In tropical climates, Pandanus odorifer grows year-round without distinct dormancy. In temperate regions grown as a houseplant, reduce watering and stop fertilizing during winter when growth naturally slows due to lower light levels. The plant blooms during the rainy/summer season. Increase watering and resume fertilizing in spring as growth accelerates. Protect from cold drafts and ensure minimum temperatures stay above 13°C (55°F) during winter months.