Mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mastic tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Anacardiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Mastic tree
The 'Pistacia lentiscus', commonly known as mastic tree or lentisk, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region. It is characterized by its dense, dark green foliage, small reddish flowers, and fruits that ripen to black, making it ideal for hedges, borders, or as a standalone specimen in low-maintenance, Mediterranean-style gardens.
Native range
Mediterranean region
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure and tolerates partial shade, adapting well to warm and dry climates. This plant is highly drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, reducing frequency in winter. It adapts to a wide variety of soils, as long as they have good drainage, including poor and calcareous ones. Avoid overwatering, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils.
How to save a dying Mastic tree
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or reddish leaves falling prematurely; dry, brittle branches. Could be water stress or excess moisture.
- First aid
- Check watering; if dry, water deeply. If excess, improve drainage. Prune dead branches to stimulate new growth.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, rotting roots. Also prolonged extreme drought when young.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and there are still green shoots. Act quickly and with patience.