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Description
Pistacia Terebinthus, commonly known as the terebinth tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The tree has a rugged and twisted trunk with grey-brown bark, and its leaves are pinnate with serrated edges. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers and round, reddish-brown fruits that have a sweet taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||———–|——————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Sapindales|| Family| Anacardiaceae|| Genus| Pistacia|| Species| Pistacia Terebinthus |
Appearance
The terebinth tree has a unique appearance with its twisted trunk and pinnate leaves. The leaves are dark green and can grow up to 10 cm long. The tree produces small greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, followed by round reddish-brown fruits in the fall. The fruits have a sweet taste and are commonly used in traditional medicine.
Care Guide
To care for Pistacia Terebinthus, it is important to ensure it is planted in well-draining soil and receives enough sunlight. The tree can tolerate drought conditions, but regular watering is recommended during prolonged periods of dryness. Fertilization should be done in the spring, and pruning can be done in the winter to maintain the tree’s shape. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The terebinth tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Pistacia Terebinthus is native to the Mediterranean region, including North Africa, southern Europe, and western Asia. It can be found in rocky areas and is often used as a windbreak. The tree can also be found in urban areas and is commonly planted in parks and gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pistacia Terebinthus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the terebinth tree can be grown in a container. However, it is important to ensure the container is large enough to allow for root growth and that the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can the fruits of the terebinth tree be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruits of Pistacia Terebinthus can be eaten and are commonly used in traditional medicine.
Q: How tall can the terebinth tree grow?
A: The terebinth tree can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Q: Is Pistacia Terebinthus a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the terebinth tree can tolerate drought conditions, but regular watering is recommended during prolonged periods of dryness.
Related Plants
– Pistacia lentiscus- Pistacia vera- Pistacia atlantica- Pistacia chinensis
References
– “Pistacia terebinthus.” Plants for a Future, 2012, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pistacia+terebinthus.- “Pistacia terebinthus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287847&isprofile=1&basic=Pistacia%20terebinthus.- “Terebinth.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 2019, www.britannica.com/plant/terebinth.
