SCREW PINE

PRODUCTS & PROCESS

HISTORY

• The screw pine craft has been in to existence since 800 years. The main centers of this craft in Kerala are
Karunagapalli Taluk of Kollam District, Mavelikkara and Karthikapalli Taluks of Alappuzha dist.

• Screw pine is a plant that comes under Pandanus genus. The word Pandan is derived from an Indonesian name of a
tree called Pandan

• The leaf arrangement of the plant is like the threading of a screw, hence the name screw pine. The leaves have
thorns on the sides and midrib and are very flexible.

• The screw pine leaf is not water absorbent. Screw pine has the capacity to hold the soil tight and prevent the region
from soil erosion. The root system is fibrous and holds the fine alluvial soil. The roof of houseboats in Kerala and the
walls are all covered with screw pine mats, it adds to the aesthetics and gives a feel of traditional living.

• A wide range of daily useful products are made out of screw pine including mats, hats, bags, files etc.As a substitute
for plastic, it offers an eco-friendly choice.

• This mats has a significant role in the traditional customs of Kerala. Important visitors to homes were offered these
mats as honoured articles to be sat upon and also people used to sit in the onam festival for eating onasadhya.
MAKING PROCESS
PRODUCTS