PANDANUS
Scientific Name: Pandanus spp
Common Names: Pandan
Description: Pandanus is a large and diverse genus of monocotyledonous plants belonging to the Pandanaceae family.
Size: Species range from small shrubs reaching 1 meter (3.3 feet) to large trees reaching 30 meters (98 feet) or more.
Leaves: Long, slender, sword-shaped leaves with pointed tips and spiny margins.
Fruit: Varies depending on the species, but typically a fleshy syncarpic fruit (multiple fruits fused together) with a fibrous core.
Uses:
- Food: The leaves of some species are used for flavoring in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly for dishes like curries and rice.
- Fiber: The long, strong leaves of some Pandanus species are used for weaving mats, baskets, hats, and other textiles.
- Landscaping: Species tolerant of salt spray are used in coastal landscapes to help prevent erosion.
