Santalum album is a small tropical tree of the Santalaceae family, commonly known as the source of sanalwood. This species has been utilised, cultivated and traded for many years, some cultures placing great significance on its fragrant and medicinal qualities. It still commands high prices an essential oil, but has lost the once extensive use as a timber for fine woodworking. For these reasons it is has extensively exploited, the population in the wild is vulnerable to extinction. The plant is widely cultivated and long lived, although harvest is viable after 40 years.