Mastic
A big old-Florida hammock tree with fruit wildlife loves. You don't see it planted enough, which is half the reason I plant it.
Sideroxylon foetidissimum
A long lived hammock giant with a buttressed trunk and edible yellow fruit.
Why it works here
Mastic is a classic South Florida hammock tree, evergreen, statuesque, and built to last around a century. The trunk develops handsome buttressed flares at the base as it ages, and it stands up to hurricanes as well as any big tree we plant. The yellow orange fruit is edible and pulls in birds and small mammals. If you are planting a legacy tree for the next generation, mastic is a beautiful choice.
Care
Water it through establishment, then it is very drought resistant in well drained soil. Give it room, this is a large, long lived tree that resents being crowded or root disturbed. Prune young for structure, then leave it largely alone. Mulch wide and feed with compost only. The species name foetidissimum refers to the flowers having an off smell for a short bloom period, so if fragrance matters near a patio, keep that in mind when siting.
Common problems
Sticky latex in the fruit and stems. Not a pest, just its nature. If you eat the fruit expect a sticky, gummy sap, and keep the drop off hardscape.
Briefly stinky flowers. Cultural fix is placement, keep it back from windows and sitting areas if the short bloom smell would bother you.
Otherwise very trouble free, with no major pests or diseases to spray or fuss over.
Common questions
You can really eat the fruit?
Yes, the ripe yellow fruit is edible raw, though the sticky latex is a bit of an acquired experience. Birds and wildlife are the main fans.
How big and how long does it live?
Big and long, think a substantial shade tree that can push a hundred years. It is a plant it and leave it to your grandkids kind of tree.
Is it hurricane safe?
Among the better ones. That dense wood and buttressed base give it real storm resistance when it has been pruned well.
Interested in a mastic in your landscape?
We plan, install, and care for it. Start with a paid consultation.