Betoum
Pistacia atlanticafam. Anacardiaceae
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Pl. E4D7 — Pistacia atlantica
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IOverview
Overview
Betoum, scientifically known as Pistacia atlantica and belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, is a tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Algeria, Cyprus, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Turkey, and West Himalaya. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, thriving in light and medium soil types. Known for its edible fruit, Betoum reaches a height of 20 meters and is hardy in zones 6-9. Its adaptability to various habitats makes it a notable presence in the landscapes of its native range.
Quick answers
What is Betoum?
Betoum, scientifically known as Pistacia atlantica and belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, is a tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Algeria, Cyprus, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Turkey, and West Himalaya.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Betoum thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist environments. This tree is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 20 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The fruit of Betoum is edible.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Betoum for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, hardy tree that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Betoum sapling and some basic gardening tools like a spade and watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the ground or a large pot, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their nursery container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune annually in late winter to remove dead branches and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, and exposing the plant to extreme heat or cold.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Oil, Gum
Other uses:DyeGumInkoilResinRootstockTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
22 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
22 native · 3 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 22 native· 3 introduced
Europe5 regions
native (5)CyprusGreeceRussiaSpainUkraine
Asia7 regions
native (7)AfghanistanIranIraqPakistanPalestineSaudi ArabiaTurkey
Africa4 regions
native (4)AlgeriaLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:Turkey-in-Europe, West Himalaya, East Aegean Is., Lebanon-Syria, Sinai, Transcaucasus
introduced:Tadzhikistan, Utah, California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Anacardiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Anacardiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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