Santalum Murrayanum

Description

Santalum Murrayanum, also known as the Murray Sandalwood or Western Australian Sandalwood, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Santalaceae. It is native to Western Australia and can grow up to 5 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk with rough bark and produces small white or cream flowers that bloom from September to November. Its fruit is a small, hard, woody capsule that contains one seed.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Santalum Murrayanum has small, oval-shaped leaves that are about 1 to 2 cm long and 5 to 10 mm wide. The tree has a dense, bushy growth habit and its branches are covered in small, scale-like leaves. The bark of the tree is rough and dark brown in color. Its flowers are small, white or cream-colored, and grow in clusters. The fruit of the tree is a small, hard, woody capsule that contains one seed. The wood of Santalum Murrayanum is highly valued for its fragrance and is used in perfumes and incense.

Care Guide

Santalum Murrayanum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:

• Water: The tree is drought-tolerant and can survive on little water. However, it will grow faster and healthier if it receives regular watering.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
• Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Santalum Murrayanum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Santalum Murrayanum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Common pests that may infest the tree include spider mites and scale insects. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Santalum Murrayanum is native to Western Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including sand dunes, heathlands, and woodlands. It is adapted to dry, sandy soils and can tolerate high temperatures and low rainfall.

Question and Answer

• Q: How long does it take for Santalum Murrayanum to grow to maturity?
• A: Santalum Murrayanum can take up to 20 years to reach maturity.
• Q: Can Santalum Murrayanum be grown indoors?
• A: While it is possible to grow Santalum Murrayanum indoors, it prefers full sun and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
• Q: Is Santalum Murrayanum endangered?
• A: Yes, Santalum Murrayanum is listed as a vulnerable species due to overharvesting for its wood.
• Q: Can Santalum Murrayanum be used in aromatherapy?
• A: Yes, the essential oil extracted from Santalum Murrayanum wood is used in aromatherapy for its calming and grounding properties.

Related Plants

• Santalum Acuminatum
• Santalum Album
• Santalum Austrocaledonicum
• Santalum Spicatum

References

• “Santalum murrayanum.” FloraBase. Western Australian Herbarium, n.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2021.
• “Santalum murrayanum.” IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. International Union for Conservation of Nature, n.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2021.
• “Western Australian Sandalwood.” Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Government of Western Australia, n.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2021.