Australian Sandalwood - Santalum spicatum (Wolgol) seeds
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Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum)
A semi-parasitic native tree, prized for its aromatic timber and edible nuts.
Quick Facts
- Height & Spread: Grows as a tall shrub or small tree up to 5 meters high.
- Flowers: Green, clustered in pyramidal arrangements, mainly in autumn and winter.
- Fruit: Large, round with a yellow to red-brown thin fleshy outer layer.
- Soil: Adaptable to a range of soils; thrives in semi-arid conditions.
- Position: Full sun; grows semi-parasitically on other plants, particularly Australian natives.
- Habitat: Found in semi-arid regions on the edge of southwest Australia.
Why Grow Sandalwood?
Sandalwood is a versatile and valuable tree, offering edible nuts, shade, and the iconic sandalwood oil. Its semi-parasitic nature adds a unique dimension to its cultivation, making it a fascinating addition to bush food gardens or native landscaping projects.
Bush Food Note
The nuts of Santalum spicatum have been a traditional bush food for centuries:
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Preparation:
- Nuts are best roasted before consumption.
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Culinary Uses:
- Nutty and nutritious, they can be used as a snack or added to various recipes.
How to Grow
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Sowing Instructions:
- Nick the seed coat gently to overcome dormancy.
- Place kernels in moist vermiculite within sealed plastic bags at room temperature.
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Position:
- Plant germinated seeds near a host plant, preferably an Australian native seedling.
- Ensure full sun and well-drained soil.
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Care Tips:
- Water seedlings adequately during establishment.
- Maintain host plants nearby to support the semi-parasitic nature of the tree.
Uses in Your Garden
- Bush Food Garden: Harvest and roast nuts for a nutritious snack.
- Ornamental Value: Unique leathery leaves and pyramidal green flowers add interest.
- Ecological Benefits: A host-dependent tree, contributing to biodiversity in native gardens.
- Timber Production: Valued for its aromatic sandalwood oil and durable wood.
Germination Tips
- Pre-treatment: Nick the seed coat to aid germination.
- Method: Use moist vermiculite in sealed plastic bags until germinated.
- Planting: Transplant germinated seeds near host plants and water regularly.
- Timeframe: Germination can be slow; patience is required.
Order Now
Grow the iconic Santalum spicatum, a tree that offers edible nuts, ornamental beauty, and the potential for sandalwood oil. Perfect for bush food enthusiasts, native plant lovers, and those interested in sustainable timber.
Order your Sandalwood seeds today and cultivate a piece of Australia’s cultural and natural heritage!