Loughmiller, Campbell and Lynn
Pistacia mexicana Kunth
Mexican pistachio, Texas pistachio, American pistachio
Anacardiaceae (Sumac Family)
Copall pistachio is a large, airy, rounded
shrub or multi-trunked small
tree, 12-20 ft. tall. Its glossy foliage, reddish in spring, dark-green later, is pinnately compound. Clusters of small, white flowers are followed by clusters of red, nut-like drupes on females. These become almost black on drying.
Image Gallery:
10 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Tree Size Notes: 12-20
Fruit: Size Class: 12-36 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Mar , Apr , May , Jun , Jul , Aug
Distribution
USA: TX
Native Distribution: S. TX & n.e. Mex.
Native Habitat: Limestone cliffs; ravine edges
USDA Native Status: L48(N) Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Description: Well-drained, alkaline soil.
Conditions Comments: This uncommon, handsome
evergreen is drought-resistant and grows well in full sunlight and merits planting as an ornamental in warm, dry climates. In spring the new dark red foliage is showy. Clusters of small, white flowers are followed by clusters of red, nut-like drupes on females. These become almost black on drying.
Benefit
Use Wildlife: Fruits attract birds.
Use Food: Goats browse the leaves; however, the small seeds are often empty and unimportant as food for wildlife or people. Pistachio nuts are from the related Common Pistache (Pistacia vera),
native of western Asia.
Attracts: Birds
Deer Resistant: High
2009-09-06
