Pistacia chinensis USA - Deciduous - Chinese Pistach, Chinese Pistache Page

Looking for a drought-tolerant and hardy tree for your urban environment? Look no further than the Pistacia chinensis, also known as the Chinese Pistach or Chinese Pistache. This tree is a popular choice for street trees in urban settings due to its ability to survive in harsh environments and withstand drought conditions. It grows quickly and doesn't mind heat and drought.

In the low-elevation deserts of Arizona, the Chinese Pistach is the only tree whose leaves turn a vibrant scarlet in the fall, making it a stunning addition to any landscape. Its foliage is dark green in the summer and turns orange or orange-red in the fall, creating a beautiful display of autumn colors.

The Chinese Pistach is native to central and western China, Taiwan, and the Philippines. It is a small to medium-sized tree, growing from 9-15 meters tall, and exceptionally up to 25 meters. The leaves are deciduous and pinnate, with 10 or 12 leaflets, and the terminal leaflet usually absent. The tree produces small red drupes containing a single seed.

This tree is most highly regarded in warm climates and grows best in full sun. It is also the most frost-tolerant species of Pistacia, withstanding temperatures down to about -25°C. Chinese Pistach is also disease-free, making it a low-maintenance choice for street trees or shade trees.

Not only is the Chinese Pistach a visually appealing tree, but it also has practical uses. In China, the oil from the seeds is used for biodiesel production. In Florida, it is used as a shade tree and as understock for the edible pistachio nut tree, P. vera.

If you're looking for a tree that can thrive in urban environments and provide beautiful fall colors, the Chinese Pistach is an excellent choice. Visit our website for more information on this impressive and versatile tree.