Pistache or no?

Elaine West

I was told this was a Chinese Pistache when I bought it as a teeny sapling at a neighborhood sale at least 4 years ago. It did very poorly in it's first pot because the other plant had totally invasive roots. It's been VERY happy since being transplanted just a year ago. So much so that it's branches got very leggy and I didn't even know it because it was in a somewhat tight space with the other plants in my container garden. (No yard or terra firma where I live).
I figure it's first pruning is way overdue, and after looking at a number of trees on your site, I dont' think it's the advertised Pistache, but maybe a LOCUST? Anyway, what would be the recommended steps with this plant? It's lowest branches would hang lower than the base of the trunk if allowed to, so it's shape is looking rather strange.
Thx !

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dov

It looks like a Pistache, but I'm not really familiar with the species. What are you plans for the tree in the long term? It really is a tree and not so much suited to a terrace or patio.

How you prune it really does depend on what you intend to do with it.

Brent Ferris

I agree with Dov. Has the characteristics of a Chinese pistache. I am not familiar with the species -- esp since is grows in Zones 7 to 9. My info says it typically grows 2-3 ft per year in good conditions, and the young shoots and leaves can be cooked and eaten like a vegetable(in China). Few insects and diseases affect the tree and has an ability to withstand poor droughty soils.

So, I guess you could keep as a bonsai tree, preferably in a bigger pot, and if you like the taste of the shoots/leaves you could have an addition to your meals perhaps 1x per month. As a bonsai, -- not my field -- how you prune for the shape and size you want to maintain is what is important, and letting a tree grow to its natural height 30-35 feet is less important.

Elaine West

THANKS to dov and treeshaveneeds for your speedy replies!
I like the bonsai idea and will contact a local bonzai master about shaping/training this tree using those methods. It would be a nice compliment to the 2 Japanese maples I have in nearby containers.
I'll try to give a progress report in the next month or two.
Elaine