Pandanus amaryllifolius (Pandan leaf) 班兰叶 (17cm pot)

Pandanus amaryllifolius, commonly known as Pandan or Pandan leaf, is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly prized for its aromatic, long, narrow leaves. Known for its distinct, sweet fragrance, Pandan is commonly used in cooking, particularly in Asian cuisines, for flavouring rice, desserts, and beverages. The plant has stiff, sword-like leaves that grow in rosettes, and its vibrant green colour makes it an attractive addition to both ornamental and culinary gardens. Pandan is a fast-growing, clump-forming plant, and when its leaves are crushed or bruised, they release a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.

Plant Care Guide for Pandanus amaryllifolius

Light Requirements: Pandanus amaryllifolius thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. To promote healthy growth and fragrance, place it in a location that receives several hours of filtered sunlight each day. If growing indoors, a spot near a well-lit window is ideal. While it can tolerate some shade, the plant may not grow as vigorously or produce as much aroma in lower light conditions.

Watering: Pandan prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. Ensure that the soil stays evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly before watering again. It’s important not to let the plant sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.

Soil: A well-draining, rich, and loamy soil mix is best for Pandanus amaryllifolius. It can thrive in standard potting soil amended with some compost to improve its nutrient content. Pandan enjoys slightly moist, well-aerated soil and benefits from being planted in a pot with good drainage to avoid water stagnation.

Fertilising: Fertilise the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser. This will encourage strong growth and vibrant foliage. Be cautious not to over-fertilise, as this can result in excessive leaf growth with a weaker fragrance. If grown in containers, the plant may need more frequent feeding, as nutrients can be leached out with watering.

Common Pests: Pandanus amaryllifolius is generally resistant to pests but may occasionally suffer from infestations of scale, mealybugs, or aphids. Regularly inspect the plant, especially the undersides of the leaves, for signs of pests. If needed, treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage the issue. Ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding over-watering will also help prevent fungal diseases and pests.

General Care Tips: To keep Pandanus amaryllifolius looking its best, trim any yellow or damaged leaves to maintain its neat appearance. The plant is also quite tolerant of pruning, and cutting back any overly long or spindly growth can encourage more compact and bushy growth. Pandan thrives in warm, humid conditions, so it will benefit from occasional misting or being placed on a humidity tray, especially in dry indoor environments.