Santalum album, commonly known as Indian Sandalwood, is a tropical evergreen tree native to the dry deciduous forests and scrublands of Australia and the Philippines. It typically grows to a height of 13-30 feet (4-9 meters) and is notable for its hemiparasitic nature, relying on the roots of host plants for water and nutrients. Indian Sandalwood is revered for its fragrant heartwood and oil, which are central to religious rituals, aromatherapy, and the perfume industry. The heartwood is pale yellow to golden brown and becomes highly aromatic as the tree matures. Flowering occurs from May to July, with small purple-brown flowers that are not particularly showy.

Indian Sandalwood is valued for its essential oil, which is rich in α-santalol and used in high-end perfumes and cosmetics. The wood is also used in fine woodworking and carving. Due to its slow growth rate and overharvesting, cultivation requires patience and a long-term perspective. It thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils and requires full sun to partial shade. While it is drought-tolerant once established, young plants need regular watering. It is susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. In cultivation, it is often grown within plantations under strict regulations to ensure sustainability.CC BY-SA 4.0