SANTALUM album

This small tropical tree is the most common source of sandalwood and sandalwood oil. Every part of the plant can be used to extract the oil including the roots.
An erect slender tree with glossy green leaves, Attractive small flowers followed by small cherry-like black berries.

Certain cultures place great significance on their fragrant and medicinal qualities. It is also considered sacred in some religions and is used in different religious traditions.

Sandalwood has antipyretic, antiseptic, antiscabetic, and diuretic properties. It is also effective in the treatment of bronchitis, cystitis, dysuria, and diseases of the urinary tract.

Prefers rich well composted soil in a sunny protected position. Drought and frost tender.

Please Note: Although many of the traditional Bush Food and Medicine plants are now commercially produced in various forms we recommend you research these before using them as any form of food or medicine. Some parts of the plant may not be edible or some may need to be prepared before they are safe to eat or use in any way. We do our best to describe their traditional & modern uses. It is the purchaser's responsibility to ensure they are fit for their intended use.

Grow notes:

Sandalwood seeds have a hard casing, to assist germination it is best to break through that casing to allow moisture to be absorbed and start the germination process.
This can be achieved in a number of ways, placing the seed in boiling water for 30 seconds or soaking and placing the seed in the hot sun are two of the methods most commonly preferred. WikiHow - How to Grow Sandlewood Seeds

Our preferred method is to use just boiled water.

1. Soak seed in just boiled water for 30 seconds, transfer to tepid water and allow to soak for 24 hours.
2. Sow seed 20 mm deep
3. Keep warm and moist at around 22-25°C 
4. Germination time can vary depending on temperature, and moisture levels but expect results in 4-8 weeks.

The seed will also germinate successfully in the compost pile providing it is kept moist and retains heat.  Simply cover the compost with a damp hessian bag and keep it moist. Check periodically for germination.