Mastic Tree
pistacia lentiscus
Also known as: ["Mastic","Lentisk","Greek Mastic"]
Overview
An evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region, known for its aromatic resin used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Pistacia |
| Botanical Name: | Pistacia lentiscus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in Mediterranean climates, or as a container plant in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with organic matter; cactus or Mediterranean plant mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in arid regions; place in brightest spot indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use terracotta pots for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in Mediterranean climates.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain form and health.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant and remove dead or overgrown branches to encourage bushier growth and better air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged branches first; make clean cuts just above buds or nodes.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during spring and summer, reducing frequency to once every 4–6 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts below 50°F (10°C); prolonged cold can damage branches and roots.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location in winter; apply mulch to protect roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch in intense heat; growth may slow if water demand exceeds supply.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply once every 6–8 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicPistacia lentiscus is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The seeds and leaves may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to their chemical composition. Severe toxicity is unlikely unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicPistacia lentiscus can cause mild toxicity in dogs if ingested. The seeds and leaves contain compounds that may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation or discomfort. No severe systemic toxicity is expected unless consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPistacia lentiscus is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high oil content. No significant toxic effects have been documented in typical consumption scenarios.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the mastic tree suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal environments.
Q: What are the uses of mastic resin?
A: The resin is used in traditional medicine, chewing gum, and as a flavoring in foods and beverages.
Q: How fast does the mastic tree grow?
A: It grows at a moderate pace, typically reaching its mature size over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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