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Description
Pistacia Atlantica, also known as the Mt. Atlas Mastic tree, is a deciduous plant that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is native to the Middle East and North Africa, where it thrives in arid and semi-arid climates. This plant is highly valued for its resin, which is used in the production of chewing gum and flavorings. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Pistacia |
Appearance
Pistacia Atlantica is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. It has a round and spreading crown with a short trunk and multiple branches. The leaves are pinnate, with 5 to 11 leaflets that are glossy and dark green in color. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with male and female flowers on separate trees. The fruit is a small drupe that is red when ripe and contains a single seed.
Care Guide
Pistacia Atlantica is a hardy and resilient plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Pistacia Atlantica is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. However, it is important to water the plant regularly during its first year of growth to establish a strong root system.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, as it can obtain nutrients from the soil.- Soil: Pistacia Atlantica prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Pistacia Atlantica can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pistacia Atlantica is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by the following:- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and can eventually kill the plant.- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing and deformation of the leaves, and can also secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves, and can also produce webbing.
Habitat
Pistacia Atlantica is native to the Middle East and North Africa, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions. It is commonly found in rocky and mountainous areas, and can grow at elevations of up to 2,000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pistacia Atlantica a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Pistacia Atlantica is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Can Pistacia Atlantica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pistacia Atlantica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: Is Pistacia Atlantica a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Pistacia Atlantica is a good plant for landscaping as it is hardy, drought-tolerant and has an attractive appearance.
Q: Can Pistacia Atlantica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Pistacia Atlantica can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late autumn or early winter.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pistacia Atlantica:- Pistacia vera (Pistachio)- Pistacia lentiscus (Mastic tree)- Pistacia terebinthus (Turpentine tree)- Pistacia chinensis (Chinese pistache)
References
– “Pistacia Atlantica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281276- “Pistacia Atlantica.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:709471-1
