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Indian rosewood

Scientific Name: Dalbergia sissoo

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

East Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia)

East Indian Rosewood, scientifically known as Dalbergia latifolia, is a prized timber valued for its rich color and tonal qualities. It is also known by several common names, including sonokeling (Indonesia), Bombay rosewood, Malabar rosewood, palisandre de l'Inde, roseta rosewood, black rosewood, and sheesham.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant's wood is often used for furniture and woodworking, and the presence of splinters may be a concern.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Dalbergia latifolia
  • Family: Fabaceae (implied by genus Dalbergia)
  • Common Names: East Indian Rosewood, sonokeling, Bombay rosewood, Malabar rosewood, palisandre de l'Inde, roseta rosewood, black rosewood, sheesham.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to India, Myanmar, and possibly neighboring regions.
  • Also grown in Indonesia.
  • The most prized timber specifically comes from India.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • The heartwood color ranges from golden brown to deep purplish brown with darker brown or blackish streaks. The wood darkens with age.
  • Sapwood is yellowish.
  • Has delicate, light green, oval-pointed leaflets.

Ecological Role

  • The text notes a distinction between good forest wood versus coffee estate wood, suggesting it can be cultivated in agricultural settings.

Quirky Facts

  • In India, there are five Indian rosewood log auctions every year, averaging around 6000 cubic meters of logs.
  • The Shisham tree or Indian Rosewood tree is the symbol of the Punjab province of Pakistan.

Usage

  • Used for coffee tables, furniture, lumber and planks.
  • It is very popular and musically rich tonewood.
  • It has been the mainstay of guitar makers.
  • Also used for wood veneer, boxes.