Pandanus utilis

The Pandanus utilis, locally known as Vacoa or Pimpin when referring to its fruits, is a large exotic plant that will delight enthusiasts of unusual tropical species. It has a unique appearance that always catches attention when discovered on the beaches of Réunion or Madagascar; this opulent plant, firmly stays on the ground relying on its aerial roots like supports. At the top of its robust false trunk, one or more beautiful rosettes of leaves, resembling those of yuccas, flourish. Despite being frost-sensitive, Vacoa remains an original and highly decorative collection plant. It will adorn the terrace or balcony during the summer, and the greenhouse or conservatory during winter. Provide it with well-drained soil, light, and regular watering.

The Pandanus utilis belongs to the family of pandanaceae, which gathers around 600 species of perennial, shrubby, or arborescent herbaceous plants, occupying a vast region from eastern Africa, Madagascar, to the Pacific islands including Malaysia and Australia. The Pandanus utilis is native to the shores of the Indian Ocean and is now widespread in all tropical regions up to southern Spain. In the wild, it reaches a height of 15 to 20 m (49 to 66ft) with a width of 6 to 10 m (20 to 33ft). When cultivated in a pot, its dimensions will be much more modest.

A moderately fast-growing shrub, the Pandanus utilis develops a kind of straight and thick, smooth, ramified trunk of light brown colour. At mid-height, aerial roots develop and plunge into the ground. This original root system is an excellent adaptation to unstable sandy soils and strong winds. At the top of the false trunk, and then on each of its branches, a beautiful flared crown composed of ribbon-like and pointed leaves grows, sheathing at the base, with spiny and reddish edges arranged in a spiral in 3 concentric series. Each leaf measures up to 2 m (7ft) long and 3 to 11 cm (1 to 4in) wide. In this dioecious species, there are male individuals distinct from female individuals. Flowering occurs on mature subjects and under appropriate climatic conditions. The pendant panicles of male flowers are fragrant and enclosed in white bracts. Female flowers are grouped in small bouquets or greenish heads. Once pollinated, the female flowers give way to edible fruits, similar to pods. In Réunion, the white flesh contained in the receptacle of the still green fruit, called "pimpin", is consumed after cooking.

The Vacoa has a unique presence that adds a touch of exoticism to any decor. From May to September, place it on the terrace or balcony, alongside Phormiums, tree ferns, or Cycas, for example. Then bring it indoors into a frost-free greenhouse, a winter garden, or a bright conservatory.