The terebinth, scientifically known as Pistacia terebinthus, is a deciduous plant species commonly referred to as the turpentine tree. It grows as either a small tree or a large shrub, belonging to the cashew family, Anacardiaceae. Found across the Mediterranean region, this plant has been recognized for centuries.
Defining Characteristics
It typically reaches heights of up to 10 meters (33 feet), though it often appears as a large shrub. Its compound leaves are 10–20 cm (3.9–7.9 inches) long, featuring five to eleven glossy, oval leaflets arranged oppositely. These leaflets measure between 2–6 cm (0.79–2.36 inches) long and 1–3 cm (0.39–1.18 inches) wide. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, possess a strong, resinous scent.
In early spring, reddish-purple flowers emerge alongside new leaves. The plant is dioecious, meaning individual trees bear either male or female flowers, necessitating both sexes for seed production. Following successful pollination, female trees produce small, globular drupes, typically 5–7 mm (0.20–0.28 inches) long. These fruits transition from red to black as they ripen. Galls, often shaped like goat’s horns, are also a common sight on its leaves and leaflets, resulting from insect activity.
Natural Habitat and Range
It extends from Morocco and Portugal in the west, across Southern Europe, to Greece, Turkey, and parts of the Middle East, including Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. It thrives in Mediterranean climates characterized by dry summers and mild, wet winters. This plant is well-adapted to environments with full sun exposure and can tolerate drought conditions.
Terebinths are found in moist areas, at elevations up to 600 meters (2,000 feet), and can grow up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. They are common in garrigue and maquis shrublands, as well as in deciduous oak woodlands. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy, loamy, or rocky soils and can tolerate a range of soil pH levels from mildly acidic to alkaline.
Historical and Cultural Importance
Throughout history, the terebinth held significant cultural and symbolic importance, particularly in the ancient Near East. It is frequently mentioned in ancient texts, including biblical narratives, where it often symbolizes strength, endurance, and longevity due to its robust nature and deep root system. The Hebrew word “elah,” often translated as terebinth, appears in various biblical passages.
Notable biblical references include the “great tree of Moreh” at Shechem, where God made a covenant with Abram, believed to be a terebinth. The Valley of Elah, famous as the site where David fought Goliath, is named for the terebinth trees that grew there. These trees were often associated with sacred sites, serving as places of worship or divine encounters. Ancient cultures sometimes venerated terebinths, performing rituals or burying important individuals beneath their boughs.
Contemporary Uses and Kinship
The terebinth tree, Pistacia terebinthus, is a close botanical relative of the more widely recognized pistachio tree, Pistacia vera. Both belong to the genus Pistacia within the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes cashew. This kinship means individuals with pistachio allergies may exhibit cross-sensitivity to terebinth.
Historically, the terebinth was a source of resin known as Chian, Chios, or Cyprian turpentine. This resin was used in classical Greece for its aromatic and medicinal properties, including treatments for various ailments and as a wine preservative. In modern times, the resin is still used in perfumes and skincare products.
The fruits are roasted to make a coffee-like beverage in some regions, such as Turkey, known as menengiç kahvesi. The oil from the fruit is used for soap production. The leaves and shoots are sometimes consumed as vegetables, and the galls, rich in tannins, were traditionally used for tanning leather.