These leaves are from the fragrant screw-pine tree, called “toei horn” in Thailand. The screw-pine tree has stiff branches supported on stilt-like masses of aerial roots. The sharp-edged leaves are spirally arranged, and the small, decorative and fragrant white flowers are followed by large fruit heads 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter, looking rather like green pineapples. Besides Pandanus amaryllifolius there are other varieties; variegated screw-pine (P. veitchii), and the walking stick palm, or kewra, (P. odoratissimus).
History and mythology
Pandans are found in Madagascar, and throughout Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands and tropical Australia. In older times, the tough, fibrous leaves were used for house thatching, and were woven into sails, clothing, floor mats, and baskets. The grass skirts worn by Pacific Island women were often made of split, bleached pandan leaves.
Cultivation
Grow the screw-pine tree in warm, damp areas in part sun. The soil should be medium quality, and moist.
Harvesting and processing
The long flat leaves are collected and either crushed or boiled to extract the flavor and color. The leaves are air-dried and finely chopped for use in curries. Dried pandan leaf is sold in some shops as “rampe” (Sri Lanka), and as “daun pandan” (Malaysia and Indonesia). Store in a cool, dark place to retain color and flavor.
Various uses
Culinary
The flavor of pandan in Malaysia and Indonesia is as popular as vanilla is in Western countries. It is used to make the grass-green pandan cake, a favorite Asian sponge, usually topped with a green jelly-like icing, and may flavor rice and curries. Strips of pandan leaves are woven into artistic baskets for serving glutinous rice or savories. The male flower cluster of the pandan has a strong perfume that is used sparingly in Indian sweets, and may be bought as an essence or concentrate. On festive occasions, essences of rose and pandan are used to flavor the delicious spicy rice dish, biryani.
Medicinal
The whole plant is diuretic. The roots are anti-diabetic, and leaves can be used for treating skin diseases.
Cosmetic
An ingredient in perfume.
