the pistacia lentiscus, commonly called lentil, is an evergreen shrub belonging to the family of anacardiaceae. has an erect bearing, very ramified, with a rounding foliage. the leaves on the branches are arranged alternately and paripennately, with elliptical shape and smooth margin. have a green color that with the arrival of the cold can fade on the reddish. in the months of April and May the small reddish flowers bloom, which are collected in inflorescences with a cloth on the axilla of the leaves. prefers a sunny exposure, but also tolerates half a shadow. it manages to grow also in poor and rocky soils, and is also suitable for sea resorts. reacts well to pruning and is also used for the realization of hedges.