Santalum, Indian Sandalwood, Chandan Tree- Plant

Description Sandalwood is often cited as one of the most expensive woods in the world. Sandalwoods are medium-sized hemiparasitic Fragrant wood trees  Sandalwood tree grows to a height of about 20 metres.  Has leathery leaves in pairs, each opposite the other on the branch Leaves are partially parasitic on the roots of other tree species. Both tree and roots contain a yellow aromatic oil, called sandalwood oil, the odour of which persists for years. The oil is obtained by steam distillation of the wood and is used in perfumes, soaps, candles, incense, and folk medicines. They may live to one hundred years of age.

Plant Specification

Caring of Chandan Plant

Sunlight

• Keep the plant in direct bright light.
• Provide afternoon shade to the plant when young.

Soil

• The soil should be well drained and fertile rich in organic content.

Watering

• Poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture.
• Water when top soil (1-2 inches) feels dry to touch.
• Water thoroughly in the summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season.

Application of Fertilizer

• During the main growing season feed the plant with organic fertilizer once a month.
• Loosen the topsoil without disturbing the roots of the plant so it can uptake the nutrients and moisture easily.

Re-potting

• When a plant outgrows in current pot, re-pot with fresh potting soil and some fertilizer.
• Do the re-potting late evening and keep the plant in shady area for 2 to 3 days and then move the plant in its suitable climatic condition.

Plant Protection

• Remove dead, infected or damaged plant parts and dispose them away from the planting area.
• Spray Neem, Eucalyptus or Citrus oil for any insect/pest attack, as a primary treatment.

Special Feature

Uses