Pandanaceae

Pandanus

Pandanus

Genus of tropical monocotyledonous plants in the family Pandanaceae, commonly known as pandanus or screw pines. With over 700 accepted species, they constitute one of the most diverse monocot genera in the Old World tropics. They are characterised by long linear leaves arranged spirally in three rows around the stem (hence "screw"), very conspicuous aerial prop roots and globose compound fruits (syncarp). They grow on sandy coasts, mangroves, tropical forests, oceanic islands and riparian environments. Many species are of cultural, food and craft importance in Pacific, Indian Ocean and South-east Asian communities.