Chinese Pistache: There’s More Than Meets the Eye

(Pistacia chinensis)

Sometimes nicknamed the ‘ugly duckling’ in the tree world, the Chinese pistache is often snubbed because of its unattractive and misshapen early stages. Although born into rough beginnings, the tree develops into an impressive specimen. It’s a hardy tree and commonly used in dry landscapes.

As the name predicts, the Chinese pistache is related to the pistachio tree, although it does not produce any nuts. Not only is this tree heat and drought-tolerant, but it is also winter hardy AND pest and fire resistant. Talk about resilience! Here are a few things to note if you’re looking to add one to your yard.

Environmental Factors

• Grows in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, silty loam, well-drained and clay soils (hardiness zones 6-9).
• Grows 1-2 feet a year, reaching 25-35 feet at maturity.
• Prefers full sun, at least 6 hours of direct unfiltered sunlight a day

Physical Attributes

• Produces panicles of greenish flowers in April & May.
• Withstands heat quite well and tolerates urban conditions.
• Provides vibrant fall foliage with shades of orange and red.

Do you have a Chinese pistache? Share a picture!