Tree
Chinese Pistache
Pistacia chinensis
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardPistacia chinensis
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$29.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 4.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow
Mature size30-40 feet × 25-35 feet
About Chinese Pistache
Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis) is a medium to large deciduous shade tree prized for one of the most vibrant fall color displays of any tree suited to the South — brilliant orange, red, and yellow foliage that persists well into winter. Hardy through USDA Zone 6b–9b, it thrives in full sun, tolerates drought and poor soils, and is virtually pest-free, making it an outstanding street and specimen tree for NE Florida landscapes. Starting at $29.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
Plant in full sun for best growth and fall color. Chinese Pistache tolerates reflected heat from pavement, making it an excellent street or parking lot tree in NE Florida.
Water
Very drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly for the first 1–2 years to support root establishment; thereafter minimal supplemental irrigation is needed except during severe drought.
Soil & Fertilizer
Adapts to sandy, loam, clay, or poor urban soils as long as drainage is adequate. Little fertilizer is needed; apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring for the first few years to encourage establishment.
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Common questions
Is Chinese Pistache a good plant for St. Augustine?
Chinese Pistache is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 30-40 feet × 25-35 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.