Pandan (Pandanus amaryllifolius)

It is also known as Pandan, Fragrant Pandan, Scented Pandan, Screwpine, Fragrant Screwpine, Indonesian Screwpine, Pandan Rampeh, Pandan Wangi, Daun Pandan or 班兰 (Ban lan).

A. Taxonomical Info 

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Tracheophytes 

Class: Equisetopsida

Order: Pandanales

Family: Pandanaceae

Genus: Pandanus

Species: Pandanus amaryllifolius 

B. Morphological / distribution/ habitat info 

Morphology

This plant grows as a shrub (1 to 1.6 meters tall) or a small tree (2 to 4.5 meters tall). The tree form has one straight trunk without branches. The trunk also grows thick aerial roots (roots above ground). The leaves are long and thin with smooth edges and pointed ends. Shrub leaves are 25 to 75 cm long. Tree leaves are about twice that size. All the leaves have a slightly folded or ridged surface. If you look at a cross-section (a cut), the leaf shape is like an upside-down "W".

Distribution

Pandan is naturally found in the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. It has been introduced and cultivated in areas of South Asia and East Asia. The species thrives both in its native habitat and where it has been introduced, showing a versatile adaptability to varying regional climates. 

Habitat Info

Pandan plants come from tropical places. They need high humidity and damp, well-draining soil all the time. It usually grows in wetlands, rivers, marshes, billabongs and floodplains. 

C. Traditional Uses / TK-related info 

Culinary & Fragrance Uses 

Pandan leaves are very popular in Southeast Asia because they make food smell sweet and taste nice, like a mild vanilla. People use the juice to make cakes, desserts, and teas, and it also turns them green. They also use the leaves like baskets to wrap rice or chicken before cooking, or to hold sweet jellies. After cooking, the leaves are usually taken out and not eaten. 

Medicinal Uses 

 Pandan is used in traditional medicine to support the body in several ways. For aches and pains, especially rheumatism and sore joints, the leaves are made into a liquid with coconut oil and applied directly to the skin. Drinking a tea made from the leaves is thought to have a calming effect that helps people who are restless or stressed. Finally, the roots contain natural parts that have been traditionally used to help control blood sugar, offering support for diabetes. 

Other Applications 

Pandan leaves are highly useful for many things besides food and medicine. The long, tough leaves are often woven into baskets, mats, and containers. The leaves also serve as a natural air freshener in homes and cars, often dried and used in potpourri. Interestingly, the same sweet smell that people enjoy also works as a natural bug repellent, helping to keep pests like cockroaches away. 

D. Any related scientific studies, such as ecology/ conservation status/threats/diversity 

• IUCN status

Data deficient (DD)

• Threats 

The primary threat to the Pandan plant's health and productivity comes from a few common insect pests. These pests, including Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites, Scale Insects, and Caterpillars, harm the plant by feeding on its sap or chewing its leaves, leading to yellowing, stunted growth, and potential leaf loss. Fortunately, these infestations can be managed using simple, common methods like physical removal, spraying with a strong stream of water, or applying natural pest control options such as Neem oil and insecticidal soap.