2023 What Is Pandanus: Expert Tell You

What is Pandanus and Why is it So Special?

The pandanus plant, also known as screw pine, is a fascinating botanical miracle with a variety of uses. Pandanus has distinctive flat leaves with serrated edges and fragrant fruit that lend a unique flavor and aroma. The plants have adaptative large prop roots that allow them to grow in challenging conditions.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.

pandanus, pandan, clear drinking glass with brown liquid — *Photo by* *An Nguyen* / *Unsplash*

The Fascinating History of Pandanus

The history of pandanus cultivation and use dates back thousands of years. Evidence suggests that Pandanus first originated in Southeast Asia and Oceania. The earliest records of pandanus use come from:

• ancient Egypt – Pandanus leaves were found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 3000 BC

• Polynesia – Pandanus fruit, leaves and wood have been traditionally used by Polynesian cultures for centuries

• Indonesia and Malaysia – Ancient artifacts show that pandanus weaving and crafts have a long tradition

The spread of pandanus was likely facilitated by seasonal migrations of people, storms and ocean currents that carried pandanus fruit to new islands. Pandanus gradually became integrated into the cultures and cuisines of Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

The leaves and fruit of pandanus have been utilized in many ways:

• As flavoring and fragrance agents in cooking – especially for rice, breads, and desserts

• For weaving baskets, mats, hats and other crafts

• In traditional medicine to treat conditions like coughs, colds and malaria

• As building material for thatched roofs, fences and wall screening

Over time, specific pandanus species have been selectively bred for desirable traits like large leaves, sweet fruit and pest resistance. Knowledge of how to cultivate and use pandanus was passed down through oral traditions and practice.

The popularity of pandanus plants as ornamentals and theme plants has grown in recent decades, exposing more people worldwide to their intriguing history and uses.

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Exploring the Various Species of Pandanus

The pandanus genus comprises over 700 known species that vary widely in form, function and geographic distribution. They thrive in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe. Some major Pandanus groupings include:

• Screw pines – Tall tree-like pandanus with prop roots that screw into the ground for stability.

• Shrubby pandanus – Small to medium-sized pandanus that form dense clumps.

• Wild pandanus – Include many fruit-bearing species with edible fruit.

• Ornamental pandanus – Cultivated for their attractive leaves and growth habits.

Some interesting pandanus species:

Pandanus utilis – Provides fragrant leaves widely used for flavoring in Southeast Asia. Reaches 30 meters tall.

Pandanus tectorius – Native to Pacific islands. Large leaves used for weaving mats, baskets. Grows up to 20 meters.

Pandanus leram – Unusual dwarf pandanus only reaches 2 meters. Texture plant valued for bonsai and containers.

Pandanus furcatus – Screw pine with thick prop roots. Furnishes fragrant fruit eaten raw or made into jam.

Pandanus martii – Beautiful shrubby pandanus with finely dissected olive green leaves. Grows 5–8 meters tall.

The diversity of pandanus species is a result of:

• Isolation – Different pandanus became separated on islands and evolved independently.

• Adaptation – Pandanus developed unique characteristics to survive diverse environments.

• Selective breeding – Humans propagated pandanus with desirable traits for specific uses.

Studying the evolution and relationships between pandanus species may yield insights about:

• Colonization of Pacific Islands
• Evolution of phenological traits (e.g. fruit, fragrance)
• Development of desirable horticultural features

Exploring pandanus biodiversity offers opportunities for discovery and cultivation of new plants with benefits for agriculture, landscaping and human wellbeing.

pandanus, pandanus fruit, close-up photo of sliced pomegranate — *Photo by* *Arjun Kapoor* / *Unsplash*

Cultivating and Caring for Pandanus Plants

While pandanus are relatively low maintenance plants, there are some key factors to consider when growing them successfully. Proper cultivation involves:

Sunlight – Pandanus plants prefer full sun to part shade. They require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil – Pandanus grow best in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. They tolerate poor and sandy soils but need good drainage.

Water – Water pandanus plants regularly, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between watering. During growth periods, water every few days.

Fertilizer – Apply balanced fertilizer to pandanus once a month during the active growing season. Use at half the recommended strength.

Pruning – Prune off dead or damaged leaves and stems to maintain an attractive shape. Some pandanus benefit from removal of old fruit stems.

Protection – Young pandanus may need protection from strong winds. Mulch around the base of large pandanus to conserve moisture.

Pests – While generally pest resistant, pandanus can be susceptible to sap-sucking insects. Ladybugs and neem oil spray provide natural control.

Propagation – Pandanus are most easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 15–20 cm cuttings in summer, dip in rooting hormone and plant.

Diseases – Fungal diseases can affect pandanus, especially those grown in less than optimal conditions. Provide good airflow and drainage.

Caring for pandanus correctly involves balancing their basic requirements for:

• Light – Bright areas with adequate sunlight hours
• Moisture – Consistently moist but well-draining soil
• Nutrients – Timely applications of balanced fertilizer
• Protection – From extreme temperatures, wind, and pests

With proper pandanus cultivation techniques and ongoing care, homeowners and gardens can enjoy:

• Beautiful ornamental leaves and forms
• Fragrant flowers and delicious fruit (in some species)
• Natural screenings and boundaries in the landscape
• Dramatic accent plants that attract attention

pandanus, pandan, white ceramic bowl with green liquid — *Photo by* *An Nguyen* / *Unsplash*

Discovering the Culinary and Medicinal Uses of Pandanus

Various parts of the pandanus plant have been used for centuries to add distinctive flavors, aromas and health benefits. The leaves and fruit of different pandanus species are prominent ingredients in:

Culinary uses:

• Rice and other dishes – Pandanus leaves are commonly used in Southeast Pandanus Asian cuisine to flavor rice, vegetables, soups and noodles.

• Drinks and desserts – Pandanus juice, extract and shredded leaves flavor juices, smoothies, rice pudding and other desserts.

• Baked goods – Pandanus leaves yield a scent similar to vanilla and are used to flavor breads, cakes and cookies.

Medicinal uses:

• Relieving cough and cold symptoms – Brewed pandanus leaves act as an expectorant and decongestant.

• Managing diabetes – Studies suggest pandanus leaf extract may lower blood sugar and improve insulin function.

• Treating malaria – Traditional use of pandanus leaf decoctions to reduce malaria symptoms and fever.

• Aiding digestion – Pandanus leaf tea is consumed to ease stomach discomfort, bloating and constipation.

• Alleviating pain – Pandanus fruit and leaf extracts show anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties in animal studies.

Major components that contribute to the flavor and health effects of pandanus include:

• Eugenol – A phenylpropanoid compound that gives pandanus its sweet floral aroma.

• Carotenoids – Impart the yellow-orange color to pandanus fruit and leaves. May have antioxidant benefits.

• Flavonoids – Plant compounds that act as antioxidants, reduce inflammation and help manage blood sugar.

• Terpenes – Bioactive compounds that provide the distinctive pandanus fragrance and possess antimicrobial activity.

While most pandanus uses are based on traditional knowledge and anecdotal evidence, scientists are investigating:

• Active compounds in pandanus responsible for medicinal effects

• Potential of pandanus as a functional food or supplement

• Safety and effectiveness of pandanus extracts for specific health conditions

• Optimization of pandanus parts for optimal flavors and nutritional value

With further research, pandanus may realize its full potential as an ingredient for flavoring cuisines, improving wellness and protecting health in modern diets.

pandanus, pandanus fruit, sliced watermelon on white background — *Photo by* *Mockup Graphics* / *Unsplash*

Unlocking the Hidden Beauty of Pandanus Crafts

The long flat leaves of pandanus plants have been utilized for centuries in the weaving of beautiful and functional crafts. In many cultures, pandanus crafts are integral parts of cultural traditions and expressions of indigenous creativity. Major pandanus crafts include:

Weaving:
• Mats – The most common pandanus craft, made by Pandanus weaving or plaiting leaves together. Used for flooring, se<ting, walls.

• Baskets – Woven pandanus leaves make durable baskets for carrying and storing items.

• Hats – Leaves woven into various hat styles, sometimes decorated with feathers.

• Furniture – Chairs, tables and other utilitarian pieces created through pandanus weaving.

Carving:
• Decorative art – Fine carvings of pandanus wood into ornaments, boxes, utensils and figurines.

• Musical instruments – Carved pandanus wood used to make ukuleles, guitars and other stringed instruments.

Other crafts:
• Installation art – Large-scale installations using pandanus leaves for sculptural and architectural effects.

• Jewelry – Bracelets, necklaces and beads fashioned from woven or dyed pandanus leaves.

• Masks – Pandanus leaves have been crafted into ritual masks and costumes in Polynesian cultures.

Traditional pandanus crafts are characterized by:

• Simplicity – Often create using only pandanus leaves, with little need for additional materials.

• Sustainability – pandanus plants are renewable and can be harvested without harming the plant.

• Local use – Items are made for everyday use within indigenous communities.

• Cultural symbolism – Certain shapes, designs and colors may carry spiritual or social meaning.

While some pandanus crafts are becoming rarer due to modernization, efforts are being made to:

• Revitalize interest in traditional pandanus weaving among younger people

• Market pandanus crafts to wider audiences as sustainable souvenirs of South Pacific cultures.

• Preserve pandanus craft knowledge through documentation, apprenticeships and workshops.

• Incorporate pandanus crafts into community celebrations, cultural events and environmental education.

With careful stewardship and adaptation, the timeless beauty of pandanus crafts can endure as an expression of cultural identities, customs and connections to nature.