Overview
Pistacia chinensis is a columnar upright, spreading branched trees in the genus Pistacia, part of the Anacardiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around Higher than 12 metres tall and wider than 8 metres wide, reaching full size in around 20-50 years. Pistacia chinensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. It is drought resistant. Suggested uses include architectural. It is native to C & W China.
About
Pistacia chinensis is a half-hardy deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 25 meters in its natural habitat, although it typically grows smaller in cultivated settings. The tree features pinnate leaves composed of 10 to 12 glossy, serrated leaflets that showcase a dark green hue, transforming into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow during the fall season. In mid to late spring, small, aromatic red flowers emerge; if pollination occurs, female specimens develop small, round reddish fruits that eventually ripen to a blue color.
About the genus
This genus comprises 10 to 20 species of flowering shrubs and small trees belonging to the cashew family. The most recognized member is the pistachio, cultivated for its edible seeds.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pistacia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Pistacia chinensis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- Higher than 12 metres
- Spread
- wider than 8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural
- Native to
- C & W China
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pistacia chinensis
- Cultivation
- Grow in moderately fertile, sharply drained soil in a sunny, sheltered spot. A good specimen tree for mild, frost free areas
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to fungal root rot and coral spot
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Pistacia chinensis?
Grow in moderately fertile, sharply drained soil in a sunny, sheltered spot. A good specimen tree for mild, frost free areas.
Where is the best place to plant Pistacia chinensis?
Pistacia chinensis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pistacia chinensis need?
Pistacia chinensis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Pistacia chinensis?
Pruning group 1.
How big does Pistacia chinensis grow?
Pistacia chinensis reaches a height of Higher than 12 metres and a spread of wider than 8 metres. It takes around 20-50 years to reach full size.
Is Pistacia chinensis hardy in the UK?
Pistacia chinensis has a UK hardiness rating of H3.
How do I propagate Pistacia chinensis?
Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.