Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia sissoo
Sissoo
About this plant
Dalbergia sissoo, commonly known as Indian Rosewood, is a fast-growing deciduous tree valued for its durable hardwood and attractive foliage. It has pinnate leaves and produces small fragrant flowers. The wood is widely used in furniture and musical instruments. The tree is also planted for shade and soil improvement.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Dalbergia
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Higher classification
- Fabales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh
- Distribution
- Native to the Indian subcontinent; widely cultivated in South Asia, Africa, and parts of Australia and the Americas.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 45 °C
- Optimal
- 20-35 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the first few years to establish roots. Once established, it tolerates dry conditions but benefits from occasional deep watering.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can also be beneficial annually.
Dalbergia sissoo is a hardy tree that grows quickly and tolerates dry conditions well. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It may suffer if overwatered or planted in poor drainage. Regular pruning helps maintain shape and health.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Attractive pinnate leaves, fragrant small flowers, and a broad spreading canopy.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Safe to plant in home gardens.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Dalbergia sissoo may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen. People with tree pollen allergies should be cautious during its flowering season. To reduce exposure, avoid close contact with the flowers and wear protective gear if handling wood dust from this tree.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot if overwatered, leaf spots in humid conditions, and occasional pest attacks like borers.
Uses
Used for timber, shade, ornamental planting, and soil improvement through nitrogen fixation.
Notes
Prune young trees to develop a strong structure. Be cautious when handling wood dust as it can cause irritation. Suitable for large gardens or parks due to its size.