Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus)

Mastic, a small evergreen tree or shrub, grows up to 13 feet (4 meters) tall and is native to the Mediterranean region. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves, which give it a dense, bushy appearance. Mastic produces small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in clusters in spring. By late summer, these flowers develop into small red berries that ripen to black. Mastic’s resin, known as mastic gum, has been prized for centuries for its various uses in medicine, food, and industry.

Mastic thrives in dry, rocky soils and requires minimal water, making it ideal for arid Mediterranean climates. It can be found in scrublands, rocky hillsides, and coastal areas, where it contributes to soil stabilization. The resin extracted from mastic trees has a long history of use, especially on the Greek island of Chios, where it has been harvested for over 2,500 years. Mastic gum is used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, as a flavoring agent in foods, and even in the production of varnishes.

Ecologically, mastic plays a role in supporting local wildlife by providing food and shelter. The plant is drought-tolerant and highly resilient, which allows it to thrive in poor soils where other plants may struggle. Its unique resin and ability to withstand harsh conditions make it a valuable plant both culturally and ecologically.

Scientific Classification of Mastic

Kingdom	Plantae
Clade	Angiosperms
Clade	Eudicots
Order	Sapindales
Family	Anacardiaceae
Genus	Pistacia
Scientific Name	Pistacia lentiscus

Quick Information

Plant Type	Evergreen shrub or small tree
Identification	Height: Up to 13 feet (4 meters) tall Leaves: Glossy, dark green, compound leaves Stem: Woody, branching stems Flowers: Small, inconspicuous, bloom in clusters in spring Roots: Deep root system Growth Habit: Dense, bushy form Crown: Rounded and compact
Distribution	Native to the Mediterranean region
Habitat	Dry, rocky soils, often found in scrublands, coastal areas, and rocky hillsides
USDA Hardiness Zone	8 through 10
Growth Rate	Slow to moderate; grows 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) per year
Lifespan	Long-lived; can live for several decades
Growing Conditions	Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Well-drained, rocky, sandy soils Water: Low water needs, drought-tolerant
Drought Tolerance	High; well-adapted to dry Mediterranean climates
Diseases	Resistant to most diseases, but can suffer from root rot in overly wet conditions
Pests	Generally pest-resistant, though scale insects and aphids can occur
Reproductive System	Produces small red berries that ripen to black, containing seeds
Propagation	Through seeds and cuttings
Wildlife Value	Provides food and shelter for local wildlife
Uses	Resin (mastic gum) used in traditional medicine, food, and industry, ornamental landscaping
IUCN Conservation Status	Not currently listed as threatened