The Red Push Pistache tree, a robust hybrid of Pistacia atlantica and Pistacia integerrima, offers a striking presence in diverse landscapes. It is favored for its adaptability and vibrant autumn foliage.
Key Characteristics
The Red Push Pistache typically develops a rounded, broadly spreading canopy, creating a substantial shade tree. Its bark transitions from a smooth, light gray on younger branches to a more furrowed, darker texture as the tree matures. Its deep green pinnate leaves provide foliage throughout spring and summer.
This tree exhibits a moderate to fast growth rate, often adding 18 to 24 inches in height per year under optimal conditions. Mature specimens generally reach heights of 25 to 40 feet with a similar spread, creating a significant landscape presence. Its size makes it suitable for larger garden spaces or as a street tree.
The tree is named for its fall coloration. Leaves transform into shades of red, orange, and russet. This vibrant autumn show typically lasts for several weeks, depending on regional climate conditions. Once established, the Red Push Pistache is drought tolerant, making it suitable for areas with limited water.
Planting and Care
Selecting the proper site is important for a Red Push Pistache tree. This species thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and vibrant fall color. It adapts to a wide range of soil types, but well-draining soil is important to prevent root issues. When planting, allow ample space, considering its mature spread of 25 to 40 feet to avoid overcrowding.
The planting process begins with digging a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball but only as deep as the root ball itself. Gently remove the tree from its container, loosening any circling roots at the bottom. Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding grade. Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, gently tamping it down to remove large air pockets.
After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. For the first one to two years, water consistently, typically once or twice a week during dry periods. Water deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the entire root zone, encouraging deep root growth. Once established, the tree requires less frequent irrigation.
Fertilization is not a yearly requirement for established Red Push Pistache trees, especially in fertile soil. If growth appears slow or foliage looks pale, apply a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring. Follow product instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization. Newly planted trees do not need fertilization for their first year.
Pruning helps maintain the tree’s structural integrity, health, and aesthetic form. The best time for major pruning is during the dormant season, typically late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. Focus on removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to prevent the spread of decay or pests. Crossing branches that rub against each other should also be removed to prevent wounds.
Light shaping and thinning can improve air circulation within the canopy and enhance the tree’s overall appearance. Avoid removing more than 25% of the tree’s canopy in a single year to prevent stressing the tree. Monitor for minor pest issues like aphids or scale. Diseases like verticillium wilt are uncommon, but the tree exhibits natural resilience.
Common Problems and Solutions
The Red Push Pistache can encounter challenges. Aphids can colonize new growth, causing leaf distortion or sticky honeydew. A strong spray of water can dislodge these pests, or horticultural oil can be applied for persistent infestations. Fungal leaf spots can occur during wet weather, but they are cosmetic and do not require chemical treatment.
Environmental stress causes visible symptoms. Insufficient watering during establishment can lead to wilting and stunted growth, requiring increased irrigation. Conversely, overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, characterized by yellowing leaves and a general decline. Ensuring the soil drains well and allowing the top several inches of soil to dry out between waterings helps prevent these issues.
Lack of vibrant fall color can be traced to insufficient sunlight. Trees planted in partial shade will not develop intense red and orange hues. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron chlorosis in highly alkaline soils, can also cause yellowing leaves, addressed with chelated iron supplements. Slow growth indicates inadequate soil fertility or a need for deeper, more consistent watering.