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Description
Pistacia Chinensis, also known as Chinese pistache or Chinese pistachio, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is native to China, Taiwan, and the Philippines, but has been widely cultivated in other parts of the world for ornamental and commercial purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Pistacia |
Appearance
The Chinese pistache tree can grow up to 35 feet tall and 30 feet wide, with a rounded crown and a spreading habit. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with 10-12 leaflets that turn from green to yellow, orange, and red in the fall. Its flowers are small and inconspicuous, while its fruit is a small, red drupe that ripens in the fall and attracts birds.
Care Guide
The Chinese pistache tree is relatively easy to care for, as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The Chinese pistache tree prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun for best growth and fall foliage color.
- Hardiness Zones: The Chinese pistache tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese pistache tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can sometimes be affected by:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause curling and distortion of new growth. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of branches. There is no cure, so affected trees should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
The Chinese pistache tree is native to China, Taiwan, and the Philippines, where it grows in open forests and scrublands. It has been widely cultivated in other parts of the world, including the United States, Mexico, and Australia, for its ornamental and commercial value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Chinese pistache tree drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the Chinese pistache tree is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, but it still needs regular watering during the growing season.
Q: Does the Chinese pistache tree have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, various parts of the Chinese pistache tree have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat conditions such as diarrhea, dysentery, and skin rashes.
Q: Can the Chinese pistache tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Chinese pistache tree can be grown in a container, but it will need regular fertilization and watering, and may not achieve its full size.
Q: Is the Chinese pistache tree invasive?
A: No, the Chinese pistache tree is not considered invasive in most parts of the world where it is grown.
Related Plants
- Pistacia atlantica
- Pistacia chinensis ‘Keith Davey’
- Pistacia lentiscus
- Pistacia vera
References
- “Pistacia chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a658
- “Chinese Pistache.” Texas A&M Forest Service. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/PDF/Fact_Sheets/UrbanForestry/Chinese_Pistache.pdf
- “Pistacia chinensis.” Plants for a Future. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pistacia+chinensis
