This is a very dependable tree with one true gift — sort of a Susan Boyle of the arboreal world. That gift is brilliant autumn color: orange, red, sometimes yellow. For the majority of the year, Chinese pistache is so understated and well behaved (no messy fruit, broken branches, foliage drop) that no one notices it. It’s a medium-size deciduous tree, normally with a roundish top — exceptionally versatile in home landscapes.
Remember that pistache’s good behavior is not universal. Although it is a street tree recommended by the city of San Jose, California, it is considered an undesirable invasive plant in parts of Texas and everywhere. Check locally before planting.
Monrovia
Botanical name: Pistacia chinensis
Common title: Chinese pistache
USDA zones: 6 to 9 (find your zone)
moderate requirement: Total sun
Water requirement: Moderate, but this shrub is flexible enough to take mild to heavy watering
Mature size: 30 to 60 feet tall and 30 to 40 feet wide
Tolerances: No Significant issues; resists oak root fungus
Distinguishing attributes. Pistache is unmistakable in autumn, when its leaves turn a brilliant orange or red, sometimes yellow. It’s frequently the most vivid fall show in much of California, and this tree does well in additional mild climates — even at the Southwest desert.
Red berries on female trees increase the autumn color screen; they turn blue in winter. They are not edible, unlike the nuts of this related pistachio tree.
The best way to utilize it. You’re able to grow pistachein many different situations: on a yard, as a small patio tree, as a street tree in a parking strip, at a grove of 3 or more. A mature tree can function as a substantial shade tree, as shown here in Davis, California, in which good soil along with abundant water and heat encourages robust tree development.
Growing hints. Pistache is not fussy about soil or water, however fall colour usually is more conspicuous in drier conditions. It’s a bit slow to begin; begin with a bigger nursery tree if you’re in a rush. Prune it during winter to form it and control the size.