Screw Pine
pandanus urophyllus
Also known as: ["West Himalayan Screw Pine","Urophyllus Pandanus"]
Overview
A tropical plant with distinctive prop roots and long, narrow leaves, native to the Himalayan region.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Pandanales |
| Family: | Pandanaceae |
| Genus: | Pandanus |
| Botanical Name: | Pandanus urophyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter and sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light if outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of peat, sand, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy cutting/offset.
- Prepare medium.
- Apply hormone (if used).
- Plant and water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite, peat, and sand or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim individual leaves at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged foliage; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); leaf drop or browning (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or wilting due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop due to excessive transpiration and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume the fruits of Pandanus urophyllus. The plant's fibrous components can irritate the digestive tract, leading to adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the fruits of Pandanus urophyllus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The fibrous texture of the fruit may cause irritation or blockage in the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe fruits of Pandanus urophyllus contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's fibrous nature may also contribute to irritation in the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Pandanus urophyllus?
A: It can be propagated via offsets or seeds, though offsets are more reliable.
Q: Does Pandanus urophyllus require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Are the leaves of Pandanus urophyllus sharp?
A: Yes, the leaves have sharp edges and should be handled with care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pandanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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