Turkish turpentine, Chios turpentine, Terebinth
pistacia terebinthus
Also known as: ["Turkish turpentine","Chios turpentine","Terebinth"]
Overview
A deciduous tree or large shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its resinous sap and edible seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Pistacia |
| Botanical Name: | Pistacia terebinthus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, adaptable to container growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly alkaline conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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 necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust in extreme heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if necessary.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until drainage occurs; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize during active growth; use a balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use a rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag, well-draining potting mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning to shape the plant; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to dieback.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced growth due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth season; use appropriate fertilizer; follow dilution instructions; avoid overfertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may exhibit mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest the seeds or unripe fruits of Pistacia terebinthus. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the seeds or unripe fruits of Pistacia terebinthus. The plant does not typically cause severe toxicity, but ingestion can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPistacia terebinthus contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The unripe fruits and seeds contain higher concentrations of these compounds, making them more likely to cause adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pistacia terebinthus toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What are the uses of Pistacia terebinthus?
A: It is used for its resin, which has medicinal properties, and its seeds are edible.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Pistacia terebinthus?
A: It requires moderate care, including proper watering and occasional pruning.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
