November 2009 Journal - Texas Master Gardeners Association
November 2009 Journal - Texas Master Gardeners Association
November 2009 Journal - Texas Master Gardeners Association
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NOVEMBER <strong>2009</strong> PAGE 20<br />
<strong>Master</strong> Gardener Favorites<br />
<strong>Texas</strong> Pistache<br />
George Whiting<br />
The <strong>Texas</strong> Pistache tree is a drought tolerant evergreen, needing little water. It can act as a great privacy (and sound) barrier in tight urban<br />
settings. Known as a shrub or small tree with clusters of small fernlike leaves, emanating from slender branches along multiple trunks.<br />
Typical height is 10-20ft tall and 10 foot wide. <strong>Texas</strong> Pistache is in the Sumac family (Anacardiaceae). Highly adaptive as long as it has well<br />
drained, alkaline soil and a sunny location.<br />
Natural Habitat: Found in Mexico, central and southern <strong>Texas</strong>. Occurs abundantly in <strong>Texas</strong> along Rio Grande canyons, particularly<br />
near the intersection of the Pecos River. It can be grown in Central <strong>Texas</strong> and I have successfully grown several in Northwest, Austin.<br />
Flowers & Fruit: The tree is Dioecious(two households - greek), meaning male and female trees are required for reproduction. The female<br />
tree bears white flowers, followed, in late summer by red to purple berry clusters. Birds and wildlife are attracted to the berries. Game and<br />
livestock will browse these berries as well.<br />
Propagation: Can be propagated from seed or hardwood root stock. If seed, best to germinate immediately after harvest in August or September<br />
timeframe.<br />
Note: I took one of those little red berries and germinated it about three weeks ago. Now I have a small tree, already.<br />
Right is a picture of a <strong>Texas</strong> Pistache tree that I grew from seed (berry). If you look closely near the base of the pot you<br />
will see two red berries. It was one berry just like the ones near the pot that I used to germinate the tree. I will, one day<br />
plant it on my land in Granger.<br />
WILLIAMSON COUNTY MASTER GARDENER JOURNAL
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