Screw pine - Pandanus tectorius (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Screw pine

Also known as: Thatch screwpine, Hala tree, Beach pandan, Corn plant, Ketaki

Screw pine (Pandanus tectorius) is a perennial tropical tree that is salt tolerant and grows in poor, salty or sandy soils. Screw pine is used to help stabilize soil conditions along coastal and beachfront properties. It also thrives in hot, windy areas and prefers full sun to semi-shade. Plants are dioecious with separate male and female plants. Male flowers are small, fragrant and short-lived. Female flowers are pineapple-like and are followed by fruit heads. Fruits are edible.

Scientific classification

Species

Screw pine (Pandanus tectorius)

Screwpines, stemona and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Late winter

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Mid summer, Late summer, Early winter

Harvest Time

4 m to 14 m

Plant Height

6 m to 12 m

Spread

Green, White, Variegated

Leaf Color

Red, Green, Yellow, Orange

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Screw pine

Distribution of Screw pine

Distribution Map

Screw pine naturally thrives in tropical regions of the Pacific and Southeast Asia, with a native range that encompasses archipelagos and mainland areas adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. Beyond its original habitat, screw pine has also been introduced and is cultivated across various regions, including parts of South and Southeast Asia, Central America, and even extending to the United States and the Middle East. Its adaptability allows it to be cultivated in diverse environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal lowlands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Occasionally used as a landscaping tree in tropical climates, screw pine is popular due to its ability to grow in poor soil. The hardy tree is also drought, heat, and salt resistant, making it an excellent specimen in xeriscaping and coastal gardens. Its wide canopy and fragrant flowers add to its garden appeal.

Symbolism

Humility

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Screw pine, including the following common varieties :

Tahitian screwpine 'Laevis'

Toxicity

Poisoning from screw pine occurs primarily from consuming its fruit, which contains calcium oxalate. Symptoms include mouth and throat swelling, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and skin rashes. Found in coastal areas, accidental contact or ingestion is possible.

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Quickly Identify Screw pine

Compact growth up to 2 feet (60 cm), palm-like foliage with variegated pattern.

Male flowers with white bracts, female flowers resembling pineapples, about 1 foot (30 cm) in size.

Fruit resembling a pineapple, oval shape, 1.6-7.9 inches (4-20 cm) in diameter.

Long pleated leaves, 31-71 inches (80-180 cm) in length, with ivory or yellowish stripes.

Distinctive brown ringed trunk bark, sharp conical prickles for protection and identification.

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Care Guide for Screw pine

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Screw pine thrives in humid, tropical coastal regions, preferring consistently moist but well-drained soil. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing roots to dry slightly. Typically grown outdoors, screw pine benefits from a growing season that aligns with its rainy habitat for optimal growth.

Fertilize: To nourish screw pine, use high nitrogen fertilizers for foliage and a balanced N-P-K ratio for fruiting. Fertilize quarterly during growth seasons, reducing in dormancy. Water post-fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption and protect roots, adjusting feeding to screw pine's growth cycles.

Propagation: The preferred propagation method for screw pine is through cuttings during spring and summer. It has moderate difficulty, with successful signs including new growth and root formation. Ensure the use of well-drained soil for effective rooting of cuttings.

Repotting: Repot screw pine every 2-3 years in early spring using a large container for its growing root system. Maintain steady moisture without overwatering and provide bright indirect light for recovery. Your efforts will yield lush beauty, showcasing screw pine's resilience.

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Images of Screw pine

Distribution of Screw pine

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Screw pine

Care Guide for Screw pine

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