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Description
Sideroxylon Occidentale, commonly known as the Western Mastic tree, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach 10 to 50 feet in height with a spread of 10 to 20 feet. It is native to the coastal regions of California, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The tree has a dense, round-shaped crown with dark green, glossy leaves that are 2 to 4 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. Its flowers are small, greenish-white, and bloom in the winter and spring seasons. The fruit is an edible berry that is red or black when ripe and is about 1/2 inch in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Sideroxylon |
Appearance
The Western Mastic tree has a unique and interesting appearance. It has a thick, rough, and scaly bark that is gray or brown in color. The tree produces a resin that was used by Native Americans as a chewing gum and as a waterproofer for boats. The resin also gives off a pleasant aroma. The leaves of the tree are glossy and dark green with a leathery texture. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is a small, edible berry that is red or black when ripe.
Care Guide
The Western Mastic tree is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during the hot and dry seasons. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring season with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Western Mastic tree is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Western Mastic tree is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained or if it receives too much water. It can also be affected by scale insects, spider mites, and aphids, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Western Mastic tree is native to the coastal regions of California, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The tree prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Western Mastic tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Western Mastic tree is edible and can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies.
Q: Can the resin of the Western Mastic tree be used for any medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the resin of the Western Mastic tree has been used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans to treat wounds, coughs, and other ailments.
Q: Does the Western Mastic tree attract any wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree attracts a variety of wildlife, including birds, bees, and butterflies.
Q: Can the Western Mastic tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers but may require frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Sideroxylon foetidissimum
- Sideroxylon reclinatum
- Sideroxylon thornei
References
- “Sideroxylon Occidentale.” Floridata. Accessed 23 September 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/260.
- “Sideroxylon Occidentale.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed 23 September 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/141352/.
- “Western Mastic.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 23 September 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/554–sideroxylon-occidentale.
