Mastic Tree

The Mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia) is a unique evergreen tree. While the species grows across the Mediterranean, only the variety found in southern Chios, Greece, produces the effective resin known as mastic gum.

What is a Mastic Tree?

The mastic tree, known in Greek as Σχίνος (schinos), belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. In the Mastichochoria region (southern Chios), this specific variety is cultivated to harvest its natural resin—mastic gum.

Physical Characteristics and Appearance

  • Height: Typically 2–3 meters, exceptionally reaching up to 5 meters.
  • Growth Habit: Low-branching, often resembling a dense shrub.
  • Leaves: Dark green, oval-shaped, and pointed.
  • Resilience: Thrives in rocky, nutrient-poor soil. Its shallow roots are designed to capture morning dew and air humidity, allowing survival in arid conditions.

Despite its presence throughout the Mediterranean, the "tears of Chios" are only produced in the southern part of the island due to a unique combination of soil composition, climatic conditions, and centuries of specialized breeding.

Growth Cycle and Cultivation

The mastic tree is a slow-growing plant with a long lifespan, often exceeding 100 years. Key developmental milestones include:

  • Full Development: Reached between 40 and 50 years of age.
  • Reproduction: Primarily through cuttings (grafts) pushed into the ground during summer.
  • Care: Requires minimal irrigation once established; aeration and hoeing of the soil are used to stimulate growth.

Mastic Gum Production and Yield

The resin production follows a specific lifecycle:

  • Initial Yield: Starts after the 5th or 6th year of growth.
  • Peak Production: Occurs after 15 years.
  • Decline: Production becomes minimal after 70 years.
  • Average Yield: 150–180 grams of raw mastic gum per tree annually (ranging from 10g to 500g).

Cultivators typically focus on male trees for optimal resin harvest. Proper spacing between trees is essential for air circulation and maximum yield.

Varieties of Mastic Trees on Chios

Variety Name Description Mastic Quality & Yield
Mavroschinos / Pyxari Dark green, narrow, pointed leaves with blackened edges. High quality, pure, lower yield.
Votomos Bright green, wider, less pointed leaves. High yield, lower quality.
Marouliotis / Kallimasiotis Fleshy leaves with rounded tips. Moderate quality and yield.
Platyfyllos / Pyrgousikos Common in the Pyrgi region. Good quality, moderate yield.
Livanos Rare variety with incense-like aroma. Poor quality, "burnt" scent.
Krementinos The rarest variety; resin is yellowish. Low quality, does not solidify fully.

The Association of Mastic Growers protects all cultivated species to maintain genetic diversity and resistance to disease, preserving the agricultural legacy of Chios.

Authentic Mastic Tree (Schinos) on Chios

FAQ: Mastic Tree Facts

What makes the Chios mastic tree unique?

Only the Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia grown in southern Chios produces the specific resin known as mastic gum. This is due to the microclimate and unique soil of the Mastichochoria region.

How long does a mastic tree live?

A mastic tree can live for over 100 years, reaching its peak production maturity between 40 and 50 years of age.

Which part of the tree produces the resin?

The resin, or mastic gum, is harvested from the resinous secretions (tears) that emerge from incisions made in the bark of the tree.

Mastic for your gastrointestinal tract

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