Pandanus terrestris (PROSEA)

Plant Resources of South-East Asia Introduction

List of species

Pandanus terrestris Warb.

Family: Pandanaceae

Synonyms

Pandanus montanus Miq.

Vernacular names

• Indonesia: daun tikar, pandan utan, haun tain (Ambon).

Distribution

Indonesia (Ambon).

Uses

Because of their length, the leaves are sought after for the production of tacked mats, though they are not very durable. The fruits are eaten cooked.

Observations

A dioecious tree with short, tortuous, spiny stem. Leaves 1-1.5 m × 6 cm, margins and underside of midrib with prickles. Male inflorescence spicate and fragrant. Fruits similar to those of P. dubius Spreng. P. terrestris is found in valleys in lower mountains and deserted forest gardens.

Selected sources

71, 192.

Authors

M. Brink, P.C.M. Jansen & C.H. Bosch