Red Sandalwood
Pterocarpus santalinus
Local / Vernacular name: ରକ୍ତଚନ୍ଦନ
Key Facts
Genus
Pterocarpus
Species
santalinus
Origin
Unknown
Conservation Status
Endangered (IUCN Red List, 2021)
Campus Zone
XIM University Campus
About this Tree
XIM University campus biodiversity register (2026–27). Recorded individuals: 9; abundance rank: 16.
Leaf habit: Red sandalwood is a deciduous tree. It sheds its leaves during dry seasons to reduce water loss and conserve energy. Fresh leaves emerge with the onset of the rainy season, giving the tree a renewed green appearance.
Flowers / Fruits: The tree produces small yellow flowers that grow in clusters. These flowers attract bees and other insects, which help in pollination. The fruit is a flat, winged pod containing one or two seeds. The winged nature of the fruit helps in wind dispersal, allowing the species to spread naturally in forested areas.
Native range: The tree produces small yellow flowers that grow in clusters. These flowers attract bees and other insects, which help in pollination. The fruit is a flat, winged pod containing one or two seeds. The winged nature of the fruit helps in wind dispersal, allowing the species to spread naturally in forested areas.
Red sandalwood plays an important role in dry deciduous forest ecosystems. It helps in preventing soil erosion with its strong root system and contributes organic matter to the soil through leaf fall. As a leguminous plant, it improves soil nitrogen content, supporting the growth of nearby vegetation. Its flowers provide nectar to insects, while birds and small animals use the tree for shelter, thus supporting biodiversity.
Red sandalwood has been widely used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. The heartwood is known for its cooling, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and detoxifying properties. It is used to treat skin diseases, fever, headaches, digestive problems, and blood-related disorders. The powdered wood is often applied externally to reduce acne, rashes, burns, and wounds.
Red sandalwood has immense cultural, spiritual, and religious importance in India. It is used in temple rituals, sacred carvings, prayer beads, and religious ceremonies. The wood is also used for making idols, decorative objects, and traditional handicrafts. Its deep red color symbolizes purity, strength, and auspiciousness, making it important in cultural and spiritual practices.
Related Trees
Other trees in the same family on campus
