Chinese Pistache, Chinese Pistachio
Pistacia chinensis · Anacardiaceae (Cashew or Sumac family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound, deciduous)
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate leaflets with an asymmetrical base
Margin
Entire (smooth) to occasionally coarsely toothed
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent pale yellow midrib
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves, often with an even number of leaflets lacking a terminal leaflet, aromatic when crushed, and striking fiery autumn foliage.
Description
Chinese Pistache is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its umbrella-shaped canopy, hardiness, and exceptional fall foliage. It produces clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers followed by berries that transition from red to blue.
Habitat
Full sun, adaptable to a wide range of soils including clay, loam, and sand, highly drought-tolerant once established
Native Range
Native to central and western China, widely planted as a shade and street tree in temperate regions worldwide, particularly in the US