Red sandalwood (Adenanthera pavonina)
Care, watering, light and tips for Red sandalwood on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Red sandalwood
Adenanthera pavonina, commonly known as the Red Sandalwood Tree or Coralwood Tree, is a medium to large leguminous tree renowned for its bright, hard red seeds used in jewelry and crafts. Its feathery green foliage and graceful form make it an excellent shade tree in tropical and subtropical gardens, or a striking ornamental specimen. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, its seeds and bark also hold traditional and medicinal uses.
Native range
Tropical Asia, from the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia
Care tips
This tree thrives in full sun, though it can tolerate some partial shade in very hot climates. It requires regular watering during its early years to establish, but once mature, it is quite drought-tolerant, preferring well-drained soils. A fertile, slightly acidic to neutral substrate is ideal for its optimal development. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot and seriously impact its health.
How to save a dying Red sandalwood
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or massive leaf drop, especially if soil is dry. Soft or spotted stems.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate or repot.
- What kills it
- Prolonged lack of water or constant waterlogging. Does not tolerate cold or frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not rotted and green stems remain. Recovery is slow but possible.