Foliage:

Chinese Pistache features lush, pinnately compound leaves that are 10–12 inches long, composed of 10 to 12 slender, lance-shaped leaflets per leaf. The new foliage emerges a bright spring green, maturing to deep, glossy green in summer. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a spectacular display of fiery red, orange, and yellow hues, making it one of the best trees for fall color in warmer climates. Being deciduous, it sheds its leaves in late fall to early winter, leaving behind an attractive branching structure through the colder months.

Flowers:

The flowers of Pistacia chinensis are small, inconspicuous, and appear in early spring before or as the leaves emerge. They are greenish-red and borne in clusters at the ends of branches. This tree is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate trees. The flowers are wind-pollinated and provide an early-season nectar source for pollinators.

Fruit:

Only female trees produce clusters of small, round fruits in late summer to early fall, provided there is a male tree nearby for pollination. The fruits start as green drupes, turning vibrant red as they mature, and eventually ripening to a striking blue-purple color. Though inedible for humans, the fruits are an important food source for birds and other wildlife.

Sun Requirements:
Chinese Pistache thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fall color development.

Soil Preferences:
This adaptable tree grows best in well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH but can tolerate slightly acidic conditions.

Watering Needs:
Once established, Pistacia chinensis is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. During the first few years after planting, water deeply once a week to encourage a strong root system. After establishment, occasional deep watering during extreme drought conditions will be beneficial.

Planting Instructions:

• Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
• Position the tree so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil.
• Backfill with soil, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.
• Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Growth Rate & Size:
Chinese Pistache grows at a moderate rate of about 1 to 2 feet per year, reaching a mature height of 30 to 50 feet with a rounded canopy spread of 30 to 40 feet.

Pruning & Maintenance:

• Minimal pruning is needed, but young trees benefit from structural pruning to encourage a balanced, upright shape.
• Remove any crossing, weak, or lower branches to develop a strong trunk.
• Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth emerges.

Pest & Disease Resistance:
This tree is highly resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for landscapes. It is also deer-resistant.

Fall Color & Seasonal Interest:
One of the most brilliant fall color trees, Pistacia chinensis transforms into stunning shades of fiery red, orange, and yellow in autumn. It is deciduous, shedding its leaves in winter before new foliage emerges in spring.

Wildlife Benefits:
Chinese Pistache provides food for birds and pollinators. The small, red to blue fruits (produced only on female trees) attract wildlife but are not edible for humans.

Ideal Uses in the Landscape:

• A shade tree for urban and residential landscapes
• Excellent street tree due to its high heat and drought tolerance
• A specimen tree for dramatic fall color
• Suitable for xeriscaping and dry-climate landscapes