Among the bushes that populate the Mediterranean maquis, the lentisk is one of the most representative. An evergreen shrub, resistant to sun, wind and salt, it grows wild along paths, cliffs and sunny hillsides, giving the landscape its unmistakable resinous scent.
But apart from its wild charm, the mastic tree is a plant useful in a thousand ways - ecological, therapeutic and ornamental.
I flowers of the mastic tree are tiny, red or yellowish, and appear in spring. Although not showy, they are a source of nectar much appreciated by beeswhich produce a rare and aromatic honey.
The discrete but abundant flowering is an important contribution to the local biodiversityoffering nourishment to pollinating insects at a crucial time.
For centuries, the mastic tree has accompanied the lives of Mediterranean peoples with its many virtues:
From leaves and the twigs infusions and essential oils with properties astringent, soothing and antibacterial. They are used for skin care, gum care and to aid digestion.
An aromatic resin is extracted from the mastic tree - the famous mastic - used since antiquity as a natural remedy, perfume, chewing gum and ingredient in pharmaceutical preparations.
L'mastic oilobtained from the berries, has a herbaceous scent and a delicate taste. It is used in traditional Sardinian cuisine and in cosmetics for its properties. softening and regenerating.
The mastic tree is perfect for a Mediterranean or therapeutic gardenHardy, fragrant and evergreen, it invites sensory contact with its aromatic leaves and shiny bark.
It can be used as a windbreak hedge, landscape element or observation bush for pollinating fauna.
The mastic tree is a plant indigenous and pioneerIt colonises poor and rocky soils, prevents erosion and encourages the revival of other plant species.
Planting it in the garden of Petra Oasi Naturale means contributing to the land regenerationoffering shelter to birds and bees, and enriching the landscape with an authentic, ancient and beneficial scent.
