Hypocotyl segments excised from seedlings of Santalum album (sandalwood tree) grown in vitro were cultured aseptically on various nutrient media. Regeneration of shoot buds on explants was observed on basal media supplemented with auxins like IAA, IBA, NAA, or NOA. Shoot bud formation was completely suppressed on 2,4-D or pCPA medium. Cytokinins stimulated and enhanced shoot bud formation better than auxins. Excised stem segments from adult plants did not respond to any hormonal treatment. The importance of this method in the propagation of the sandalwood tree is emphasized.