Pterocarpus santalinus

Pterocarpus santalinus, commonly known as red sandalwood or red sanders, is a tree native to India and the East Indies. It is highly valued for its hard, durable, and fragrant timber, often referred to as ruby wood. The dark red heartwood of this tree is utilized as a dyewood and for coloring various liquid preparations.1

It is important to note that Pterocarpus santalinus is distinct from true sandalwood, which comes from the genus Santalum. While both are prized for their wood, red sandalwood's primary uses are as a dye and coloring agent, whereas true sandalwood is renowned for its aromatic oil used in perfumes and folk medicines.21