Red Sandalwood | Lal Chandan – Plants

Description

Red Sandalwood “Lal Chandan”- Plant

Red Sandalwood (Lal Chandan) is a valuable medicinal and ornamental tree known for its rich red hardwood and cultural importance. It belongs to the Pterocarpus santalinus species and is native to the dry forests of South India, especially Andhra Pradesh. Lal Chandan is an outdoor plant that thrives best in full sunlight and warm climates.

This plant is highly prized for its aromatic wood, spiritual use, and ayurvedic benefits such as detoxification and skin healing. Red Sandalwood grows well in well-drained soil, is drought-tolerant, and requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for garden landscapes, farm plantations, and long-term investment plantations.

Features of Red Sandalwood (Lal Chandan)

• Known for its deep red heartwood used in medicines, cosmetics, and traditional rituals.

• Highly valued as a timber tree with long-term economic benefits.

• Fast-growing, hardy, and thrives in semi-arid to tropical climates.

• Leaves are bright green, and the tree develops a strong, durable trunk.

Plantation of Red Sandalwood

• Best planted at the start of monsoon for healthy root development.

• Use well-drained, sandy or red soil for optimum growth.

• Maintain 3m × 3m spacing if planting commercially.

• Add organic compost during planting to boost early growth.

Growing Conditions

• Requires full sunlight (6–8 hours daily).

• Thrives in hot and dry climates with low humidity.

• Very drought-tolerant once established.

• Needs minimal watering after the first year.

Care Tips

• Water young plants twice a week; reduce once the plant matures.

• Add organic fertilizer every 3–4 months for faster growth.

• Keep the soil loose and weed-free.

• Protect young plants from cattle and extreme frost.

• Prune lower branches to promote a stronger trunk.