Also known as Green-Almond · Pistache Nut · Pistachio Nut
Pistachio (Pistacia vera) is a small tree native to arid regions, producing nutritious, edible green nuts that are a popular snack and ingredient.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
50% intensity
Warm to Hot
75% intensity
Thrives in hot, dry climates with distinct winter chill for dormancy. Sensitive to extreme cold.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring. Adjust based on tree age and vigor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
The fruit (nut) is edible. Other parts of the plant are not typically consumed and may cause mild irritation if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Pistacia vera requires deep watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between applications.
Established trees are drought-tolerant, but young trees need consistent moisture during their first few years, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Prune to shape the tree and improve air circulation. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. For fruit production, focus on maintaining an open canopy.
Young trees benefit from structural pruning to establish a strong framework. Pruning is typically done in late winter or early spring.
Pistachios are primarily propagated by grafting, usually in late winter or early spring. Scions from desired cultivars are grafted onto rootstock.
Seed propagation is possible but results in unpredictable traits and is rarely used for commercial production. Grafting ensures desirable fruit quality and yield.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established Pistacia vera trees as they are typically grown in the ground.
Container-grown young trees may require repotting every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container when their roots become pot-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pistachio (Pistacia vera)
Where Pistachio (Pistacia vera) is found
Density
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9 known issues from plant disease data
Botryosphaeria Panicle and Shoot Blight on Pistachio blackens shoots and clusters, blights leaves, and can leave fruit hulls decayed.
Alternaria Late Blight on Pistachio causes black leaf spots and dark hull lesions with red halos, often leading to shell staining.
Verticillium Wilt on Pistachio causes yellowing or scorched leaves on one scaffold, followed by rapid branch death or whole-tree decline.
Phytophthora Root and Crown Rot on Pistachio causes yellowing, leaf drop, poor vigor, basal crown cankers, and summer tree death.
Botrytis Blossom and Shoot Blight on Pistachio wilts tender shoots, dries leaves, and causes blossom blight with flagging shoots.
Fruit Molds on Pistachio cause hull decay, shell staining, and kernel discoloration or mold as nuts mature under humid conditions.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Pistacia |
| Species | Pistacia vera |
Similar in genus Pistacia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
