Pandanus utilis aka Common Screwpine

Pandanus utilis, or screw-pine, is an evergreen tree in the Pandanaceae family. It is not a pine, despite its common name. Kew and Useful Tropical Plants place its native range in the Mascarenes. RHS and UF/IFAS instead list Madagascar as its origin. It grows near coasts in warm tropical regions. Garden trees reach about 13–30 feet [4–9.1 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 8–20 feet [2.5–6.1 metres]. UF/IFAS records heights up to 60 feet [18.3 metres].

The crown has an open, branched form, often shaped like a pyramid. Thick trunks have smooth brown bark with rings of old leaf scars. Large brace roots grow from the trunk above ground. These roots help hold the tree upright. Long, narrow leaves spiral around the ends of short branches. They measure 1.5–3 feet [0.46–0.91 metres] long. The leaves range from glossy green to blue-green. Stiff red spines line their edges. The foliage stays green through the year, without autumn colour.

Male and female flowers grow on separate trees. Male plants bear white, scented flowers on long spikes in winter. Female plants carry large, rounded or oval fruit heads. Both sexes are needed to produce fruit and seed. Each head holds 100–200 tightly packed drupes. Ripe fruit turns yellow to orange and attracts squirrels and other mammals. Its hard outer parts enclose only a little edible pulp. Fallen fruit and the steady loss of leaves create litter.

Grow this tender tree in full sun or partial shade. Full sun supports fruit production, while young plants tolerate shade. It accepts clay, loam and sand across a broad pH range. For cultivation, UF/IFAS recommends good drainage and ample water. It tolerates some drought and high levels of salt spray. RHS rates it H1B; UF/IFAS lists USDA zones 10b–11. In cooler climates, grow it in a greenhouse or conservatory. Use full light and loam-based, peat-free compost under glass. Water moderately during growth and sparingly in winter. Feed monthly during growth with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

Gardeners use it as a specimen or container tree. Its leaves provide material for mats, baskets, sacks, hats and thatch. Young trees supply longer, more supple leaves for weaving. Cooked fruit and cooked male flower clusters have recorded food uses. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards, but this is not proof of safety. It also records traditional medicinal uses, without evidence of effectiveness. Serious pests and diseases are uncommon, though scale insects may occur. Under glass, red spider mites can also cause trouble. Little pruning is needed; branches do not regrow from old wood.