Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo), is an erect deciduous tree, native to India, Pakistan and Nepal. It is also called Sissoo, Sisu and Indian Rosewood. It is primarily found growing along river banks below 900m elevation, but can range naturally up to 1,300m. The temperature in its native range averages 10 – 40°C, but varies from just below freezing to nearly 50°C. It can withstand average annual rainfall up to 2,000mm and droughts of 3 – 4 months. Soils range from pure sand and gravel to rich of river banks; Sheesham can grow in slightly saline soils. Seedlings are intolerant of shade.
 
Sheesham is best known internationally as a premier timber species of the rosewood genus, but is also utilised as an important fuel wood and for shade and shelter. With its multiple products, tolerance of light frosts and long dry seasons, this species deserves greater consideration for tree farming, reforestation and agro forestry applications. After Teak it is the most important cultivated timber tree in Haryana and the rest of India, planted on roadsides and as a shade tree for tea plantations.
 
TIMBER

Sheesham is among the finest cabinet and veneer timbers. The heartwood is golden to dark brown, and sapwood white to pale brownish white. The heartwood is extremely durable (the gravity is 0.7 – 0.8) and is very resistant to dry-wood termites; It is used for plywood, agricultural and musical instruments, as well as skis, carvings, boats, floorings, etc.