ABSTRACT

Santalum album L., also known as ‘srigandha’ is a small evergreen hemi-parasitic tree that is renowned for its aromatic heartwood and high commercial essential oil, valued for its traditional and medicinal uses. It is indigenous to India and thrives in dry deciduous forests, particularly in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of site condition on growth and productivity in different agro-climatic zones of North Karnataka along with the host plant preferences, management practices, leaf traits, essential oil profile, traditional knowledge and developed value-added products from sandalwood plantation residues.
Results revealed that site conditions had significant impact on growth and productivity. The Northern Dry Zone (ACZ-3) showed the highest growth and productivity, followed by the Northern Transition Zone (ACZ-8) and least in the Hilly Zone (ACZ-9). Among host plants, Cajanus cajan was the most preferred primary host, while Punica granatum and Melia dubia were most preferred as secondary and tertiary hosts, respectively. Seedlings were primarily sourced from nurseries, with weeding and mulching being common silviculture practices. Technical inputs came mostly from KVKs and protection measures often included wire fencing. Leaf essential oil yield ranged from 0.085 to 0.132 (% v/w) and it was positively correlated with precipitation. The study also documented the traditional uses of sandal leaf biomass, including its use in healthcare and cosmetics. Furthermore, value-added products such as herbal beverages and incense sticks were developed and moderately liked by panelists, indicating potential for commercial application. Overall, site conditions and host plant selection significantly influence growth and essential oil production. Effective utilization of biomass residues for value-added products can enhance income generation and support sustainable sandalwood cultivation practices.