Characteristics of Pterocarpus Santalinus
As a treasure in the world of rosewood, Pterocarpus Santalinus is renowned in the collecting community for its unique deep red wood. This tropical tree not only carries cultural memories of thousands of years but has also become the focus of the timber market due to its scarcity. With a growth cycle of hundreds of years, it is difficult to find wild old materials that are truly mature, making it particularly important to master its characteristics and maintenance methods.
Characteristics of Millennium Ancient Tree
Unique Tree Shape Structure
Mature trees can reach a height of 25 meters, with dark brown bark that has cracked patterns, and the inner red sap will oxidize over time to form a distinctive purplish red color. The trunk is straight with few knots, and the branches spread naturally in an umbrella shape.
Distinctive Leaf Shape
The elliptical leaves, 9-15cm in length, have a distinct leathery texture, with veins in a parallel feather-like distribution and leaf edges with natural wave patterns. New leaves are a tender green, turning to a deep green with a metallic sheen when mature.
Flower and Fruit Growth Cycle
Yellow umbel inflorescences bloom every winter, and by the end of spring the following year, they produce green spherical berries. When the fruit ripens, it turns purplish black and contains 1-2 flat and round seeds.
Growth Habits and Environmental Requirements
Temperature and Light Requirements
Native to tropical monsoon climate zones, the optimal growth temperature is between 20-30°C. Seedlings require 50% shading, while mature plants can tolerate full sun. Trees need to be moved indoors for protection if temperatures drop below 5°C in winter.
Soil and Water Management
Prefer well-drained red soil with a pH value of 5.5-6.5. Watering should be done using the "dry-wet" method, and root rot prevention is necessary during the rainy season.
Cultivation Techniques and Common Issues
Container Maintenance Tips
Use breathable purple sand pots and change the soil every spring for 2 years. Fertilizers mainly consist of bone meal and decomposed soybean cakes, supplemented with trace mineral elements. Pruning should retain 3-5 main branches to maintain the natural tree shape.
Disease Control Measures
Termite Infestation: Regularly inspect the wood, and pour neem oil immediately upon detecting galleries. Leaf Spot Disease: Enhance ventilation and spray Bordeaux mixture for control.
Identification Methods of Precious Timber
Texture Feature Identification
Genuine articles show fine hair-like patterns and interwoven star patterns, with the cross-section presenting alternating flame patterns of different shades. The freshly cut surface is orange-red, gradually turning to a deep purple after oxidation.
Density and Odor Verification
The wood has a distinct sinking property in water, and the sawdust dissolved in alcohol shows a purplish red misty diffusion. After polishing, it has a faint sandalwood scent, different from the astringent taste of ordinary hardwoods.
As a living fossil gift from nature, the maintenance of Pterocarpus Santalinus needs to follow its growth rules. Mastering the three key points of temperature control, light management, and disease and pest prevention can ensure the continuation of the life miracle of this millennium divine tree in the modern environment. Its unique texture characteristics are not only the core of authentication but also a direct manifestation of its collection value.