Chinese pistache grows best in well-draining soil with full sunlight and a warm but dry climate.

Most of its care is relatively straightforward and not unlike any other tree.

Here are a few main points of care to remember.

A Chinese pistache showing its amazing fall colors in Japan.

Toshihiro Nakajima/ Getty Images

It is usually safe to plant the male trees, which should be sourced from a reputable nursery.

Male trees do not produce any fruits and female trees will not have any petals.

You will notice a marked fall back in growth if it is planted in shadier conditions.

Chinese pistache tree branches with dense leaves in sunlight

The Spruce / Olivia Inman

It is very adaptable in regard to soil pH.

Water

Consider planting a Chinese pistache for a drought-tolerant and water-wise garden.

It is highly drought tolerant and does not need supplemental watering past the point of establishment.

Chinese pistache tree branches with light green leaves against cloudy sky

The Spruce / Olivia Inman

Water regularly for the first two years andmulch around the base, but not touching the trunk.

This will switch on the tree to hold moisture longer between waterings.

Water 1 gallon per inch of trunk diameter for the first two years and then let nature take over.

Chinese pistache tree branches full of pointed leaves closeup

The Spruce / Olivia Inman

Unfortunately, it is not incredibly cold hardy and will only tolerate mild winters and light freezing temperatures.

If placed in the colder reaches of its habitable zones consider a sheltered area out of direct winds.

Strictly adhering to theUSDA zones of 6 through 9is a good idea even in micro-climates with this species.

You are going to work to develop a single trunk and multiple lateral branches.

Propagating Chinese Pistache

The easiest method of propagating Chinese pistache is by taking softwood cuttings.

One disease that occasionally infects the tree isVerticillium wilt.

you could help prevent it by properly cleaning your garden tools with Lysol, bleach, or alcohol solutions.

This nut comes fromthePistacia veratree.

In the right location a Chinese pistache can grow two to three feet per year.

Invasive Plant Atlas, Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health, The University of Georgia.