Mount Atlas Pistache
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Mount Atlas Pistache
  
(Pistacia atlantica)
  
NORTHEAST OF ARIZONA STATE MUSEUM (NORTH BLDG)
  
47 This deciduous tree is a native of North Africa and has great desert tolerance. Old trees have survived for centuries in such austere deserts as the Negev in Israel. It is not as colorful in fall as is the Chinese Pistache.

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In Depth Pistacia atlantica, Mount Atlas Pistache
Location: NORTHEAST OF ARIZONA STATE MUSEUM (NORTH BLDG)
Family: Pistaciaceae
Distribution: southern Europe and northern Africa
Habitat: arid regions, along dry hillsides and field edges
Habit: large spreading deciduous tree
Flowering: small greenish white flowers
Natural History Notes: The species name and common name refers to the Atlas Mountains where this species grows. This tree is also commonly known as the wild pistachio. Distinguishing Characteristics: This deciduous tree grows to heights of about 60 feet with an equal or greater spread. The crown is dense, rounded on the top, and globular. The massive trunk is dark brown and has close fissures. The glossy medium green leaves are pinnately compound. There are 7 to 11 lanceolate leaflets each being about 2 inches long. The dioecious flowers are greenish white. The fruit is about ΒΌ an inch wide and pink in color ripening to dark blue. The fruit contains a single, edible seed. Human Uses: This tree has been used for its resin for centuries. The nuts are collected by people in the Middle East for food. An edible oil is also obtained from the seeds. The tree is planted as a shade tree in many areas and is also planted near P. vera (pistachio nut tree) as a pollinator.