Also known as Chios Mastic Tree · Chios Mastictree · Cyprus Sumac
Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean. It yields aromatic resin and is used in cuisine and traditional medicine.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate, Drought-tolerant once established
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings, reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-27°C. Can tolerate occasional light frost but is sensitive to prolonged cold.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring/summer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Mastic is drought-tolerant once established, so avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can help maintain shape and size.
Mastic tolerates hard pruning, which can be used to rejuvenate older plants or control vigorous growth.
Mastic can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or layering. Sow seeds in spring. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer can be rooted under mist. Layering is best done in autumn.
Patience is key, as propagation can be slow.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring, and mature plants less frequently, perhaps every 3-5 years. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excessive moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus)
Where Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Pistacia |
| Species | Pistacia lentiscus |
Similar in genus Pistacia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
