Pandanus kajui is a sparsely-branched, evergreen tree growing around 9 - 15 metres tall. The bole, which is slightly spiny, can be around 20cm in diameter with prop roots around 100 - 200cm tall.
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a source of materials. It is an important species locally for stabilizing river banks.
Pandanus kajui is endemic to Kenya, where it is only found in five locations, including one along the Ena River. The species was also previously found along the Tana River, but these subpopulations are now presumed extinct due to development along this river. The species is threatened by over-exploitation and land conversion to agriculture and settlements. The scale of these threats is predicted to increase in the future due to a growing human population. The plant is classified as 'Endangered' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (2020).

Known Hazards

None known

Habitat

Riverbanks, in riverine fringe, in association with Syzygium guineense, Albizia gummifera and Bridelia micrantha; at elevations from 760 - 1,190 metres.

Cultivation Status

Wild

Cultivation Details

Species in this genus generally grow well in most moist, well-drained soils and a sunny position.
A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruits and seed are required.

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Agroforestry Uses

This species plays an important role in stabilizing river banks in its native habitat.

Other Uses

The leaves are used as a thatching material for houses.
The leaves can be 40 - 230cm long and 3 - 13cm wide.
The wood is light in weight and fibrous. The stems are used as building poles in traditional houses.

Propagation

Seed –