Dalbergia sissoo, commonly known as Indian Rosewood, is a deciduous tree native to the Indian Subcontinent, including Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, as well as India. It thrives along riverbanks, floodplains, and in the moist deciduous forests where it forms a significant part of the canopy. Indian Rosewood can grow up to 25 meters (82 feet) in height and 2 to 3 meters (6 feet 7 inches to 9 feet 10 inches) in diameter, although it is typically smaller in cultivation. The tree is characterized by its long taproot, extensive surface roots, and the ability to produce suckers. The flowers are whitish to pink, fragrant, nearly sessile, and form dense clusters that are 5 to 10 cm (2.0 to 3.9 inches) in length, blooming in the spring. The tree’s wood is highly valued for its rich hue and durability.

Indian Rosewood is appreciated for its ornamental shade canopy, fragrant flowers, and high-quality timber. It is often used in urban landscaping, as a shade tree, and for reforestation projects. The wood is used for furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments. In cultivation, it requires full sun or part shade, minimal water once established, and well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant and can adapt to a range of soil types. However, it can be invasive outside its native range due to its aggressive root system and prolific sucker production. Gardeners should be cautious about planting it in areas where it could spread uncontrollably.CC BY-SA 4.0