Tahitian Screwpine

(Pandanus tectorius)

Tahitian Screwpine (Pandanus tectorius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pandanus tectorius, commonly known as Tahitian Screwpine, is an evergreen tree native to coastal regions and islets in the Pacific Islands, including Micronesia and Polynesia, where it often forms an integral part of the coastal vegetation. It typically grows to a height of 10 feet and can spread 10-25 feet wide. The tree is characterized by its spirally arranged leaves and aerial roots that provide stability in sandy soils. It produces green and white flowers in the spring and summer, which are modest in appearance. The fruit, resembling a pineapple, is actually an aggregate of drupes. In its native habitat, the Tahitian Screwpine plays a crucial role in stabilizing coastlines and providing habitat for wildlife.

The Tahitian Screwpine is valued for its resilience to coastal conditions, making it suitable for beachfront planting and erosion control. It is also used for its ornamental foliage and unique growth form. The plant’s drought tolerance surpasses that of coconut trees, a trait that is beneficial in xeriscaping. It thrives in a variety of coastal soils, including quartz and coral sands, peat, limestone, and basalt, and is tolerant of salt spray and high winds. The tree requires full sun to partial shade, with optimal growth occurring in 30-50% shade; it does not perform well in conditions exceeding 70% shade. Propagation can be from seeds or branch cuttings, with the latter resulting in earlier flowering. Male and female flowers are borne on separate trees, with females flowering 1-3 times per year and males every two months.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 15-20 feet
  • Width: 10-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Coastal regions and islets in the Pacific Islands, including Micronesia and Polynesia

Other Names

Common Names: Thatch Screwpine, Tahitian Screwpine, Hala Tree, Pū Hala, Pandanus

Scientific Names: , Pandanus tectorius, Pandanus baptistii, Pandanus veitchii, Pandanus fatuhivaensis, Pandanus pulposus, Pandanus fischerianus, Pandanus fragrans, Pandanus pedunculatus, Pandanus papenooensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Pandanus tectorius Parkinson ex Du Roi