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Description
Pterocarpus Santalinus, also known as the Indian Red Sandalwood or simply Red Sandalwood, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is mainly found in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, and has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, as well as for its valuable red timber. The tree can grow up to 10-12 meters in height and can live up to 100 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pterocarpus |
Appearance
The Red Sandalwood tree has a straight trunk that can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. Its bark is rough and dark brown, with deep vertical fissures. The tree produces compound leaves that are alternate and pinnate, with 5-9 leaflets that are ovate and about 5-10 cm long. The flowers are small, yellow, and arranged in axillary spikes. The fruit is a pod that is flat and about 7-12 cm long, containing 1-4 seeds that are kidney-shaped.
Care Guide
The Red Sandalwood tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5-6.5. It requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth, to establish a deep root system. Fertilization should be done every 3-4 months during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer. The tree can tolerate full sun to partial shade and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Red Sandalwood tree is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. It can also be affected by leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
The Red Sandalwood tree is native to the tropical regions of India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, where it grows in dry deciduous forests and scrublands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the Red Sandalwood tree used for?
A: The Red Sandalwood tree is mainly used for its valuable red timber, which is used in furniture, carving, and musical instruments.
Q: Is the Red Sandalwood tree endangered?
A: Yes, the Red Sandalwood tree is considered endangered due to overexploitation and illegal logging.
Q: Can the Red Sandalwood tree be grown indoors?
A: No, the Red Sandalwood tree requires full sun and well-draining soil, making it unsuitable for indoor growing.
Q: How long does it take for the Red Sandalwood tree to mature?
A: The Red Sandalwood tree can take up to 30-35 years to mature and produce its valuable red timber.
Related Plants
- Pterocarpus Indicus
- Pterocarpus Macrocarpus
- Pterocarpus Erinaceus
- Pterocarpus Marsupium
References
- “Pterocarpus Santalinus.” World Agroforestry Centre. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2021.
- “Pterocarpus Santalinus.” PlantZAfrica. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2021.
- “Red Sandalwood.” Rainforest Alliance. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2021.
