The Chinese pistache tree is one of the only sources of fall color at the UA. In December, its leaves turn bright orange and yellow. This is the result of the chlorophyll in the leaves breaking down, and yellow and orange compounds like carotenoids beginning to show. As you might gather from its name, this distant relative to the Pistachio is native to central China. It’s normally green, and its pinnately compound leaves can reach 1.5 feet length and have a very unique odor. Because its fruits are not edible, this tree is used mainly as a medium shade tree. Not a huge water user and extremely cold tolerant, it is easy to see why the Chinese pistache is such a popular ornamental in Tucson.
