Chinese Pistache, Chinese Pistachio

Pistacia chinensis

Physical Characteristics

Pistacia chinensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 9 m (29ft 6in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots and leaves - cooked. Used as a vegetable[11, 46, 182, 183]. Seed - cooked. It is roasted and then eaten, or is used in confectionery[105, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Miscellany Resin from the related P. lentiscus is analgesic, antitussive, expectorant and sedative. It would be worthwhile examining this species[218].

Known Hazards

None known