SCREW PINE
Screw pines (Pandanus species), especially Pandanus utilis, are striking tropical plants that can grow successfully in parts of Florida. Here’s what you need to know:
✅ General Description
Not a true pine or palm: Despite the name, screw pines belong to the Pandanaceae family.
Appearance: Spiral arrangement of long, sword-like leaves (1.5–3 ft), edged with sharp spines. Leaves grow in whorls around the trunk, giving a “screw” effect.
Roots: Distinctive stilt-like prop roots emerge above ground, providing stability in strong winds and tropical storms.
Foliage Color: Blue-green; variegated cultivars (e.g., Pandanus veitchii) have white or yellow stripes. [south-flor…-guide.com], [pslbg.org], [edis.ifas.ufl.edu]
✅ Size & Growth
Height: Typically 20–30 ft in Florida landscapes; can reach up to 60 ft in ideal tropical conditions.
Spread: 12–20 ft.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
USDA Zones: Best in 10B–11 (South Florida); can be grown in containers in Zone 9B for protection during cold snaps.
✅ Flowers & Fruit
Dioecious: Male and female flowers occur on separate plants.
Male Flowers: Fragrant clusters on spikes.
Female Plants: Produce large, pineapple-like globular fruits (8–9 inches), turning orange-yellow when ripe. Fruits are showy and attract wildlife (squirrels, raccoons). Edible pulp is minimal but culturally used in some regions.
✅ Care & Maintenance
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Adaptable to clay, sand, or loam; prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Water: Likes consistent moisture; drought-tolerant once established but looks best with regular irrigation.
Fertilizer: Apply granular fertilizer 3 times a year.
Pruning: Minimal—remove dead leaves. Be cautious of sharp spines.
Spacing: Needs plenty of room (8+ ft from structures and walkways).
✅ Salt & Drought Tolerance
Salt Tolerance: High, including aerosol salt—excellent for coastal landscapes.
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; thrives with regular watering but can survive dry spells.
✅ Landscape Uses
Specimen tree for tropical gardens.
Coastal windbreak or accent plant.
Container plant for patios (especially variegated dwarf varieties).
Centerpiece for circular drives or large open spaces.
⚠️ Things to Watch
Cold Sensitivity: Protect during freezes.
Spines: Sharp leaf edges—avoid planting near walkways or play areas.
Messy: Drops large leaves and heavy fruit year-round.
Handling: Can cause skin irritation; wear gloves.
