The fruit of Pandanus utilis is edible, although not flavorful to humans and must be cooked prior to consumption.

Within the family Pandanaceae, the genus Pandanus is thought to compose the largest group of plants.

[8] A long history of cultivation and transport to many parts of the world makes the origin difficult to trace.

[8] P. utilis has been introduced to many tropical and subtropical regions, including Central America, the Caribbean, the United States (southern Florida, Puerto Rico), Brazil, India, and Indonesia.

[8] Pandanus utilis was discovered by French naturalist Jean Baptiste Bory de Saint-Vincent.

[9] Pandanus utilis is a palm-like evergreen tree, ranging in height up to 20 metres (66 ft).

They are found in tropical areas and have an upright trunk that is smooth with many horizontal spreading branches with annular leaf scars.

Without this supportive structure, the P. utilis grows many pale brown prop roots at the base of the trunk.

[11] These roots not only anchor the tree but also keep it upright during times of heavy winds and rain in tropical regions.

[8] The female plants produce fruits resembling pineapples or oversized pine cones changing from green to yellow/orange when ripe.

It grows in full sun to partial shade but prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.

[8] The waxy covering over the leaves makes them especially attractive for baskets and roofs with their natural water-resistant surface.