Sandalwood
santalum album
Also known as: ["East Indian Sandalwood","Chandana"]
Overview
A slow-growing, hemiparasitic tree native to India and Southeast Asia, prized for its fragrant and durable heartwood.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Santalales |
| Family: | Santalaceae |
| Genus: | Santalum |
| Botanical Name: | Santalum album |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large indoor pot with bright light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering in heat/cold; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or cuttings; seeds are slower but more reliable; cuttings root with patience.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth and indirect light.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and humidity is moderate.
Environment
Warm (75–85°F or 24–29°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss; or cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is beneficial for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; be patient with rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a node or branch junction; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining form and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, or saw for larger branches; sterilize tools before use.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; susceptible to root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move indoors in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; follow dilution instructions; fertilize during active growth; cease in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring/summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSantalum album is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would adversely affect felines when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicSantalum album is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant, including its wood and seeds, does not contain compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Slightly ToxicSantalum album, commonly known as sandalwood, is generally considered safe for use in perfumery and traditional medicine. However, ingestion of its seeds in large quantities can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of certain compounds that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sandalwood fragrant?
A: Yes, its heartwood and leaves emit a distinct, sweet fragrance.
Q: Is Sandalwood toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How long does it take for Sandalwood to grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree, taking 10–20 years to mature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Santalaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
