The Pandano, whose scientific name is Pandanus utilisIt is one of the most curious plants that we can find in gardens with a warm or tropical climate, and it is that, instead of having roots underground, it has aerial roots. And that which has a tree shape. In addition, its leaves are spectacular, developing in a rosette.
Whether you live in a mild climate or not, this is a plant you can grow as it adapts very well to pots and indoor conditions.
Characteristics of the Pandanus utilis
This is a plant native to Madagascar and Mauritius that grows to reach the 5 meters Tall. Its leaves grow in a rosette, at the end of each branch. They are linear, up to 2m long, glaucous green in color and with spiny edges. Its fruit is very striking, which is quite reminiscent of a pineapple, and which is also edible ... but it does not have as much flavor as that one.
Its growth rate is medium-fast depending on the growing conditions. Thus, in warm climates without frost it can grow at a speed of 20-30cm / year, while if it is cool perhaps 10-15cm / year.
How do you take care of yourself?
In cultivation it is a relatively easy plant to maintain that will give us great satisfaction. To have it perfect, we recommend you follow these tips:
- Location: outside in semi-shade, or indoors in a room with lots of light and protected from drafts.
- Irrigation: frequent, preventing the soil from drying out completely. In general, it will be watered about 3 times a week in summer, and every 4 days the rest of the year.
- Transplant: in spring. If it is potted, it must be changed to a larger one every 2 years.
- Soil / substrate: it must have good drainage. If the garden soil has a tendency to compact a lot, we will mix it with perlite or expanded clay.
In the case that we have it in a pot, we can use black peat mixed with perlite in equal parts. - Subscriber: important to pay in spring and summer with liquid organic fertilizers such as guano, or minerals such as Nitrofosca following the instructions specified on the package.
- Pruning: not necessary, just remove the withered leaves.
- Rusticity: supports up to -1ºC.
Have you heard of this plant?
Yes, I've known her for years. I have bought one now, because I already have the necessary space for it to develop well.
Great, enjoy it.