DeruThe lentisk or mastic tree is another of our Maltese indigenous trees This small evergreen tree or large shrub usually reaches a height of 3 to 6 metresItcan withstand our hot dry summers and nee ID: 872352
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1 The Lentisk Tree - Deru The len t
The Lentisk Tree - Deru The len t isk or mastic tree is another of our Maltese indigenous trees. This small evergreen tree or large shrub, usually reaches a height of 3 to 6 metres . It ca n withstand our hot dry summers and needs plenty of sunshine to grow. It is a common tree on m aquis landscape. This tree is densely covered with dark green, shiny, pointed leaves and c lusters of small flowers appear from March to June. Male and female flowers grow on two different plants and are wind - pollinated. Male flowers appear in tight tufts with red anthers, female flowers are yellowish. On the female plant the flowers grow into fruits, which turn from red to black as they ripen. Only the fruit which have been pollinated turn to black and produce viable seeds. While those whic h produce non viable seeds remain red or w hite in colour. Female flowers Male flowers Fruit Development Another name for this tree is ‘ mastic ’ tree because of a chewable resin which can be obtained from incisions made on the bark of the tree. This resin can be dried and used as a powder, or distilled for oil and essence. It was used in the Orient for disinfecting wounds and chewed to care for gums and teeth. Today it is still used as a tanning agent as it is rich in tannin, and in tooth pastes.