Pandanus Plants Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Pandanus utilis and other species

Pandanus Family

Shrub or Small Tree

Pandanus plants sometimes go by the common name of "screw pine," even though they are not related to the true pines. The larger they are, the more impressive they become: the lower leaves slowly and naturally yellow and die away to reveal an impressive trunk topped by a head of leathery, sword-shaped leaves and supported below by massive, aboveground prop roots. Pandanus species are native to Madagascar and the islands of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Direct sunlight for half the day, or bright indirect sunlight all day, is preferred. Placement by an eastern or a western window is ideal. Pandanus plants will survive for a protracted period in mere artificial lighting, but they tend to get weak-stemmed and floppy without some natural light.

WATERING: Water thoroughly as soon as the soil surface dries. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water more than thirty minutes.  

FEEDING: Feed once every four months with a granular slow-release fertilizer. Use the amount listed in the product directions.