This small bushy shrub or small tree comes from Western and Southern Australia. Its leaves are oval-shaped (as with certain eucalyptus plants), its flowers are insignificant and yellowish, and its fruits have a reddish color. Sandalwood parasitizes the roots of neighboring trees and shrubs, and particularly acacias. It is remarkably resistant to drought, and exploits the various abilities of its host plants. This member of the Santalaceae family, similar to the true Indian sandalwood, has been overexploited in its natural habitats since the middle of the 19th century, where it was referred to as "golden wood". Its cultivation, now expanding, is accompanied by investments such as stock exchange shares.

Botanist's Glossary