Chinese Pistache

Pistacia chinensis

Description:
This is an excellent urban tree, adapting to a wide variety of conditions. The Chinese pistache has dark green foliage turning to a striking red, orange, and yellow in fall. The peeling bark adds to the year-round appeal of this tree. While this tree can start out misshapen, it matures into a magnificent tree.

Power Line Approved: No

Min. street tree planting width: 6 feet.

Mature Height: 35 feet

Mature Spread: 25 feet

Tree Shape: Round

Where to Plant: 
Great tree for your yard or in a planting strip without overhead power lines.

Leaves:
Compound dark green leaves up to 10 inches long. Fall foliage is beautiful, appearing in various shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Flowers:
Female and male trees. Red or green panicles in spring that are not showy.

Fruit:
Female trees produce small inedible nuts in loose hanging clusters turn from green to red to blue.

Preferred Site Conditions:
Widely adaptable, but prefers full sun for best growth and fall foliage. Once established, tends to be very drought tolerant.

Potential Problems:
No serious pest or disease problems. May be susceptible to vertcillium wilt.

Minimum Planting Distances:

  • 15 feet from house or building
  • 3 ½ feet back from the face of the curb
  • 5 feet from underground utility lines
  • 10 feet from power poles
  • 7 ½ feet from driveways (10 feet recommended)
  • 20 feet from street lights and other existing trees
  • 30 feet from street intersections

Additional Resources