The Chinese Pistachio (Pistacia chinensis), also known as the Pistache Tree, is a beautiful deciduous ornamental tree celebrated for its spectacular fall colors and tough adaptability.
Each autumn, its lush green canopy transforms into a brilliant display of yellow, orange, and crimson-red hues, rivaling the best fall foliage trees. This hardy, non-invasive species is ideal for urban landscapes, home gardens, and shade plantings, tolerating heat, drought, and poor soil once established.
While it doesn’t produce edible pistachio nuts, it’s a close relative of the edible Pistacia vera and is often planted for its shade, ornamental appeal, and wildlife value.
Features
- Vibrant Fall Colors: Stunning yellow, orange, and red foliage each autumn.
- Hardy & Drought-Tolerant: Excellent performance in hot, dry climates.
- Adaptable Tree: Thrives in a range of soil types and conditions.
- Ornamental Value: Ideal for landscaping, parks, and shade.
- Wildlife Friendly: Produces small berries that attract birds.
Specifications
- Common Name: Chinese Pistachio / Pistache Tree
- Scientific Name: Pistacia chinensis
- Plant Type: Deciduous ornamental tree
- USDA Zones: 6 – 9
- Mature Height: 30 – 40 ft (9 – 12 m)
- Spread: 25 – 35 ft (7 – 10 m)
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-drained; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy soils
- Soil pH: 6.0 – 7.5
- Watering: Low once established; moderate when young
- Bloom Time: Spring (greenish flowers)
- Foliage Color: Green in summer, yellow/orange/red in fall
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours, then cold stratify for 8–12 weeks at 35–40°F.
- Sowing Depth: ½ inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.
- Temperature: Maintain 70–80°F for germination.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist until germination occurs.
- Light: Place in full sun after seedlings establish.
- Transplanting: Move outdoors after last frost; space 20–30 ft apart.
Care Tips
- Water deeply during the first growing season to encourage root establishment.
- Prune in late winter to develop a strong central leader and open canopy.
- Avoid overwatering once mature; tree prefers dry conditions.
- Minimal maintenance once established—an excellent low-care tree.