MASTIC (σχῖνον). Only mentioned in the Apoc., Susannah 54— “who answered under a mastic tree.” This is the Pistacia lentiscus. It is the gum that exudes from the trunk when cut that is called “mastic” or “mastich” by the trade. This gum is usually in the form of tear-like, whitish-yellow drops. A third-grade gum is used as varnish.

This evergreen shrub grows up to 20 ft. The flowers have no petals. The fruits are 1/4-inch wide, first red, and then black.