Featured in the movie “Pushpa,” Red Sandalwood is not just rare, but also a valuable tree that can earn lakhs if grown properly.
Red Sandalwood, also known as Rakta Chandan, is found naturally only in India and six other countries. In India, it mainly grows in the dense forests of the southern region. However, with the right methods, farmers across the country can now cultivate it as a cash crop.
“Red Sandalwood doesn’t just grow, it builds fortunes—one patient season at a time.”
Nature of the Tree
Red Sandalwood is a parasitic plant, just like white sandalwood. It draws nutrition from nearby trees. Interestingly, it does not require much water—just 3 to 4 liters per week is enough. Overwatering can cause rotting of the roots.
This tree prefers well-drained gravel-loamy or red soil. Before starting cultivation, it is important to test the soil quality. Though it can be grown in any part of India, it cannot survive frost or cold weather. It grows best in dry and warm climates.
Growth and Harvest
After planting, the saplings need regular care and protection from weeds for the first two years. The tree can grow up to 5–6 meters in height. However, it should only be harvested when it has achieved good thickness.
Once planted, it takes about 10 years to yield. A single tree can produce up to 500 kg of wood. Red Sandalwood is rare and slow-growing, but it is highly profitable. One ton of its wood can fetch between 20 to 40 lakh rupees in the market.
How to Start Red Sandalwood Farming
Best Time to Plant: May to June
Steps for Preparation:
- 1. Buy healthy saplings from a certified nursery.
- 2. Plough the field 4–5 times and level it.
- 3. Ensure proper drainage as waterlogging can damage the plants.
- 4. Dig pits of 45 cm length, width, and depth.
- 5. Fill these pits with a mix of organic manure and soil.
- 6. Plant the saplings 10×10 feet apart and water them immediately.
Maintenance Tips
- Water every 10–15 days.
- In April-May, protect the plants from leaf-eating caterpillars using neem-based organic pesticides.
- Red Sandalwood trees grow up to 9 meters high and have unique triangular leaves.
- The trunk can grow up to 150–175 cm thick.
Uses and Demand
In India, Red Sandalwood is mainly used for:
- Religious rituals
- Beauty and skincare products
- Medicinal purposes
Given its demand and market value, Red Sandalwood can be a great long-term investment for farmers who are ready to wait and care for it patiently.
