Description
Inoculant Characteristics
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Resin Yield | High – Among the most effective chemical inducers for volume production |
| Fragrance Intensity | Strong – Bold, woody, spicy, with rich and mature oud base notes |
| Chemical Composition | – Chromones: High – Sesquiterpenes: High – Phenolics: Strong presence due to Fe³⁺-induced oxidative pathways |
| Resin Color | Dark brown to black – Dense pigmentation from high oxidative stress |
| Mechanism of Action | Induces oxidative stress → triggers wound-response genes → resin biosynthesis (phenolic, terpenoid, chromone pathways) |
| Best Use Scenario | Ideal for premium-grade agarwood targeting high aroma and color quality |
| Application Method | Inject into boreholes or use in paste form with wick/slow-release medium |
| Tissue Residue Risk | Moderate – Iron may remain in wood; avoid harvesting leaves or bark for tea or extract |
| Compatibility | Synergistic with fungal inoculants (e.g. Fusarium, Trichoderma) and enzymatic blends to enhance depth and diffusion |
| Resin Development Speed | Moderate-fast – strong initial browning by Week 2–3, full resin formation by Month 4–6 |
| Form | Liquid solution (5–10% FeCl₃) or powder (anhydrous ferric chloride) |
| Precautions | Handle with gloves; avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes |
Use Case Summary
Ferric Chloride is one of the most robust and proven chemical inoculants for triggering agarwood formation in Aquilaria species. Its oxidative properties mimic natural wounding, leading to high-quality resin with deep color and fragrance.
