From Seedling to Sustainable Timber

Ethical Harvesting, Exceptional Quality

Harvesting process

The harvesting process for Western Australian sandalwood is a highly regulated and sustainable operation, ensuring both environmental responsibility and long-term industry viability. Sandalwood is typically harvested after 18 to 25 years, once the heartwood has fully developed its valuable oil content. This sustainable cycle is supported by government regulations and industry best practices. It ensures a continuous and ethical supply of high-quality sandalwood to global markets.

Selection

Harvesting

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The harvesting of Western Australian sandalwood begins with a careful selection process to ensure sustainability and maximize yield. Licensed operators assess age, size and oil potential of trees before felling. This ensures only mature specimens are removed. A selective approach helps maintain biodiversity and supports natural regeneration by allowing younger trees to continue growing.

Processing

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After Silvalis harvested the Australian sandalwood industry's first plantation-grown wood in 2015, it began heavily investing in harvesting and grading systems. Silvalis offers a turnkey harvesting and grading solution for other sandalwood growers. Due to differences between wild wood and plantation-grown wood, Silvalis – in consultation with major sandalwood buyers – has developed a sandalwood grading system. This is based on heartwood percentages.

Plantation Grading Standard

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After harvesting, sandalwood is transported to Silvalis processing facilities, on the outskirts of Perth, where it is cut and grinded. Then wood is processed into logs, chips or powder. Each batch is carefully tested for quality and purity, ensuring it meets stringent standards of global markets. Wood may be used for incense, carving or other commercial applications. All of the harvested tree is used.