SCREW PINE
Screw-pine captivates with its striking landscape presence, showcasing a pyramidal, sometimes irregular silhouette that is both open and richly branched. Its smooth, sturdy trunks are crowned with elegant heads of long, slender leaves—three feet in length and three inches wide—that spiral gracefully from stubby branches. Despite its name, it is not a true pine tree.
The blue-green foliage enhances the exotic allure of this remarkable plant. In tropical regions, the leaves’ small red-spined edges are skillfully crafted into mats and baskets. The branches bear prominent leaf scars that encircle the stems, while large brace-roots emerge several feet above ground to support the plant’s structure.
Typically reaching heights up to 60 feet but often seen under 30 feet in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11 with a spread of 20 feet, screw-pine grows at a slow to moderate pace influenced by fertilization and watering practices. Its popularity as both a specimen or container planting speaks volumes about its unique charm and versatility in landscaping endeavors.
Light Requirement: full sun to partial shade
Soil Tolerances: clay; sand; loam; alkaline; acidic; wet to drained
Drought Tolerance: moderate
Aerosol Salt Tolerance: high
The male plants of the Screw-Pine may boast conspicuous and fragrant flowers, yet it’s the female plant that is often chosen for landscaping. This preference stems from its impressive, large globular fruits, measuring eight to nine inches and hanging elegantly from “cords.” These fruits are composed of 100 to 200 tightly packed drupes, resembling a pineapple in structure, and transition from green to yellow as they ripen. Although they contain only a small amount of edible pulp, their visual appeal is undeniable.
For optimal fruit production, Screw-Pine should be cultivated in full sun; however, young plants can thrive in shaded areas. It’s crucial that the soil remains well-drained and the plants are consistently watered. Despite its beauty, one must consider that Screw-Pine can be somewhat messy due to its year-round leaf drop.
The Veitch Screw-Pine or Ribbon-Plant (Pandanus veitchii) features striking white-banded spiny leaves but does not bear fruit; it is frequently used as a pot plant for decorative purposes. Meanwhile, Sander Screw-Pine (Pandanus sanderi) offers denser foliage with golden yellow bands extending from the center of each leaf to its margin.