Pistacia chinensis

Name: Pistacia chinensis

Description: The Chinese pistache is a deciduous shade tree with medium to fine textured foliage. Foliage remains an attractive, deep green color during the growing season. It features spectacular fall color in shades of orange, red-orange and even crimson. It offers superior drought, heat and wind tolerance once established.

Hardiness: USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9.

Growth habit: The Chinese pistache forms a spreading, umbrella-like canopy which at maturity is 40-50 feet high with a width of 30 feet.

In the landscape: Plant in full sun, and do not let the roots stay wet. This tree is sometimes referred to as an “ugly duckling” because young specimens are often gangly. But in a few short years, this tree transforms into a beautiful specimen, especially with some early shaping and pruning.