Early Growth of Santalum album in Relation to Shade

Abstract

Morphological features of the hemi-parasite Santalum album Linn. (Indian sandalwood) were examined on tree seedlings raised under different shade treatments. Treatment levels were full sun and 32, 50, 70 and 80% shade. The level of shade significantly affected many morphological characteristics. Leaf area was least in full sun and greater under all shade levels. Leaves were thicker, shorter and narrower in full sun than in 80% shade. Leaf length/width ratio was greater when shade exceeded 50%. Petioles were shorter in 50% and more shade. Leaves in 80% shade had more chlorophyll and were of greater weight. Stomatal numbers were higher and internodes longer in 80% shade than in full sun. None of the following showed significant differences: plant heights, leaf numbers, crown widths and stem diameters. Chlorophyll concentrations are within the range of those possessed by non-parasitic land plants. On balance 80% shade plants had adaptive attributes more favourable to growth than plants from less shade. Survival was least in full sun.