A General Account of Red Sandalwood, Pterocarpus santalinus Linn-Its Versatile Utility, Threat and Conservation

Pterocarpus santalinus Linn.f., commonly named as "Red sanders" and Rakta Chandana is one of the endemic and endangered plant species of Indian environment. This important bioresource is utilized in diverse way through out the world. This tree is precious due to its ethno medicinal utility. But industrialization, rapid urbanization, slow growth rate of the plant, unique floristic features, special geobotany and high demand of pigment production from the tree have created threats to the existence of this plant. In view of these as well as due to restricted and limited distribution of this plant species, it requires immediate attention for better conservation programme.