Pandanus balfourii

Pandanus balfourii, also known as Vakwa bordmer, is a species of plant in the family Pandanaceae, one of four species of the family that are endemic to the Seychelles.

Description

Pandanus balfourii is a small, slender, elegant tree of about height, with small supporting roots, and bearing its drooping leaves in spiral rosettes. Its medium-sized fruit body hangs from the stem and contain 70-90 individual fruit.

Distribution and habitat

It is endemic to the Seychelles, and was especially common on all the granitic islands. It was formerly extremely common along the coast, and its local name Vakwa bordmer refers to this habitat preference. However, it has been known to live in more rocky areas at higher altitudes too. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Other indigenous Pandanaceae of the Seychelles include Martellidendron hornei, Pandanus sechellarum, and Pandanus multispicatus. The Madagascan species Pandanus utilis is introduced and is now also widespread.