PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense coastal sunlight and salt spray
Watering
Allow top 5–7 cm of soil to dry between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C for short cold spells; thrives in 15–30°C Mediterranean climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Leathery, pinnately compound leaves with 3–6 pairs of oblong, glossy dark green leaflets
- Flower: Inconspicuous yellow-green dioecious flowers in axillary racemes
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray-brown bark; young twigs have reddish-brown foliage
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly to establish young plants; reduce frequency once mature
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release feed once at bud break. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base; water in lightly to avoid pest attractionPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin dense inner growth to improve airflow and light penetration
- Shape to maintain a compact, rounded habit after spring flowering
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects for humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Mastic resin has been used in medicine, cosmetics, and culinary applications since ancient times; a cultural symbol of Greece's Chios Island
Usage: Ornamental coastal shrub; commercial production of mastic resin for chewing gum, varnishes, and traditional remedies
