Is the mastic tree poisonous?
Edible Resin It may be chewed as a gum and breath freshener or used as a flavoring in puddings, cakes and liqueurs. Plants for a Future warns that children may develop diarrhea from mastic and that the essential oil should not be ingested, though an edible oil can be made from the seeds.
Is Mastic the same as frankincense?
Mastic is used in some varnishes. In ancient Egypt, mastic was used in embalming. In its hardened form, mastic can be used, like frankincense or Boswellia resin, to produce incense.
What kind of tree is a mastic tree?
Pistacia lentiscus (Mastic Tree) is an attractive large evergreen shrub or small tree with aromatic, small, leathery, olive green leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm), divided into 3-5 pairs of leaflets. Its handsome stems are reddish in color when young, turning gray as they mature. Mastic Tree is dioecious, with separate male and female trees.
Can a mastic tree be used as a screen tree?
Unfortunately for those with small gardens, this attractive tree has a spread even greater than its height. That means it can take up a lot of space in your backyard. However, it works well as a background screen tree. You won’t be bowled over by the mastic tree flowers. They are inconspicuous.
What can a Pistacia lentiscus be used for?
The sap is the source of mastic, an aromatic resin used as a breath freshener and to flavor puddings and cakes. Rich of a sweet-flavored, resinous aroma, Pistacia lentiscus is a great evergreen shrub or small tree that is useful as a dense hedge, windbreak, screen, or patio tree in hot, dry locations.
What kind of care does a mastic tree need?
Mastic tree care starts with proper placement. If you plan on growing a mastic tree, plant it in a full sun location. It also requires well-drained soil, and occasional deep irrigation is an important part of its care.