Pistacia lentiscus – Mastic Tree

Explore Pistacia lentiscus (Mastic Tree) – its characteristics, habitat, cultivation, propagation, and functional uses and benefits.

Pistacia lentiscus | Botanical Characteristics

Common Names: Mastic Tree, Lentisk

Family: Anacardiaceae

Appearance: An evergreen shrub or small tree with dense, bushy growth, leathery pinnate leaves, and reddish new growth. Produces small, inconspicuous flowers followed by red to black drupes. The bark exudes aromatic resin (mastic) when wounded.

Type: Perennial

Evergreen / Deciduous: Evergreen

Layer: Shrub layer

Root System: Deep and extensive root system, well adapted to dry and rocky soils

Height: 2–6 m

Width: 2–5 m

Lifespan: Long-lived

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Fertility: Not self-fertile

Flowers: Dioecious – male and female flowers on separate plants

Pollinator: Wind and insects

Toxicity: Generally non-toxic; resin may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals

Pistacia lentiscus | Habitat and Cultivation

Range

• Native Range: Mediterranean Basin, including Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Near East

• Companionship: Compatible with other Mediterranean species such as Quercus coccifera, Olea europaea, Cistus, and Phillyrea

• Invasive Range: Not considered invasive within its native and cultivated range

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8–11

• Minimum Chill Hours Required: None

Resistance/Tolerance

• Poor Soil: High tolerance

• Drought: High tolerance once established

• Shade: Moderate tolerance

• Flood: Low tolerance

• Wind: High tolerance

• Maritime: High tolerance

• Air Pollution: High tolerance

• Fire: High tolerance – resprouts from the base after fire

Thriving Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil Moisture: Dry to moderate; prefers well-drained soils

• Soil Type: Sandy, rocky, or calcareous soils

• Soil pH: Neutral to alkaline

Propagation

• Seeds: Possible but slow and variable germination

• Cuttings: Semi-hardwood cuttings; rooting can be difficult

Pistacia lentiscus | Functional Uses and Benefits

Permalogica cannot take any responsibility for any adverse reactions or health effects from using plants. Always consult a professional before using plants for medicinal purposes.

Edible: Resin (mastic) traditionally used as a chewing gum, flavoring, and food additive; fruits occasionally consumed by wildlife

Medicinal: Mastic used historically for digestive health, oral hygiene, and antimicrobial purposes

Cosmetics: Resin used in perfumes, soaps, and skincare products

Animal Feed: Limited use; generally browsed lightly by goats

Fiber: No

Timber: Not significant

Firewood: Yes – suitable for firewood and charcoal

Wind Break: Yes – effective as a dense shrub windbreak

Fence: Suitable for living hedges and boundary planting

Cover Crop: No

Mulch: No

Nitrogen Fixer: No

Dynamic Accumulator: No confirmed data

Pollinator Attractor: Limited – minor value due to small flowers

Pest Repellent: Resin has insect-repelling properties

Wildlife Supporter: Provides cover and food for birds and small mammals

Sign up for our newsletter or connect with us on social media to stay up-to-date with our latest posts and permaculture inspiration.

Explore our inspiring series and posts:

• Foundation

• Manual 

• Perspective 

• Design 

• Reads

• Plants

• Soil

• Climate

Love the post? Share it with your circle, inspire your people: