Pistachio Nut Tree (Pistacia vera) is a long-lived, deciduous nut tree native to Central and Western Asia, celebrated for its delicious and nutritious pistachio nuts. With its silver-green foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and striking clusters of ripening nuts, it’s both ornamental and productive.

This Non-GMO, drought-tolerant tree thrives in sunny, dry regions and well-drained soil, making it perfect for home orchards, edible landscapes, and commercial nut production. The Pistachio tree produces both beauty and bounty, offering shade, texture, and an abundance of valuable nuts for generations.

Features

• Produces clusters of premium edible pistachio nuts
• Non-GMO and drought-tolerant once established
• Long-lived and productive nut-bearing tree
• Attractive silver-green foliage and red-tinted fruits
• Perfect for warm, dry climates and orchards
• Excellent for edible landscaping and agroforestry

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Pistacia vera
• Common Name: Pistachio Nut Tree / Green Almond Tree
• Plant Type: Deciduous nut-bearing tree
• Growth Height: 20–30 feet
• Spread: 15–25 feet
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10
• Sunlight: Full sun (minimum 6–8 hours daily)
• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy or loamy soil; prefers slightly alkaline pH (7.0–8.0)
• Bloom Season: Spring (March–April)
• Nut Season: Late summer to early fall
• Flower Color: Yellowish-green panicles
• Nut Color: Green kernel with beige shell
• Foliage: Gray-green, leathery compound leaves
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Planting Season: Spring or early summer
• Sowing Depth: ½–1 inch
• Germination Time: 60–120 days (cold stratification for 6–8 weeks improves results)
• Watering Needs: Moderate during establishment; drought-tolerant afterward
• Maintenance: Light pruning to shape; minimal pest issues
• Pollination: Dioecious (requires one male for every 8–10 female trees for nut production)
• Wildlife Benefits: Provides pollen for bees; nuts attract birds and small mammals
• Uses: Nut production, home orchards, edible gardens, dryland farming, ornamental landscaping

Planting Guide

• Cold Stratify: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours, then chill for 6–8 weeks before planting.
• Prepare Soil: Choose a sunny, well-drained location with low to moderate fertility.
• Sow Seeds: Plant ½–1 inch deep; keep soil warm and slightly moist.
• Light: Provide full sun for optimal growth and nut production.
• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging.
• Spacing: 15–20 feet apart in rows or orchard-style planting.
• Care: Train trees when young; male and female trees must be planted for nut production.