Sandarac tree

The sandarac tree (Callitris quadrivalis) from the cypress family (Cupressaceae), also known as the cypress or barberry tree, originates from the Mediterranean region and is a slow-growing, shrub- or tree-shaped, evergreen, hardy plant that reaches heights of 6 to 10 m (rarely higher). The scale-like leaves are 1 to 5 mm long.

The distribution area of Tetraclinis articulata is North Africa from Morocco to Libya. The sandarac tree is the national tree of Malta.

The sandarac tree is the parent plant of Resina sandaraca, the sandarac resin.

Parts of the plant are used for smoking, the wood is used as firewood but also for handicrafts, especially the wood from the burls growing underground - thuja burl wood.