Red Push Pistache

What is Red Push Pistache and Where Does It Grow?

Red Push Pistache (Pistacia 'Red Push') is a cultivated selection combining traits from Atlas Pistache (P. atlantica) and Mt. Atlas Pistache (P. integerrima). This deciduous shade tree thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9, tolerating winter temperatures down to minus 10°F. The selection adapts to diverse climates from the Southwest desert to temperate regions, performing well from sea level to 5,000 feet elevation. Landscape architects choose Red Push for projects requiring reliable fall color, drought tolerance after establishment, and adaptability to urban conditions including heat, pollution, and compacted soils.

How Big Does Red Push Pistache Get?

Mature Red Push Pistache trees reach 25 to 40 feet tall with a 25 to 40-foot spread. Young trees develop upright to rounded canopies with strong central leaders and well-spaced branching. The deciduous compound leaves measure 8 to 10 inches long with 10 to 16 leaflets, creating medium-textured foliage during the growing season. New spring growth emerges bright red to burgundy before maturing to deep green in summer. The attractive branching structure provides winter interest after leaf drop. Trees develop relatively quickly into functional shade specimens within 8 to 12 years.

When Does Red Push Pistache Show Color?

The spectacular fall color display occurs from October through November, depending on climate and elevation. Leaves transform from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, with individual trees showing variation in color intensity. Peak color typically lasts 2 to 3 weeks. Fall color intensity increases with cooler night temperatures and adequate water during the growing season. The spring flush of red new growth provides a second seasonal color show from March through May. Inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in spring but have no ornamental value.

What Are the Sunlight and Water Needs?

Red Push Pistache requires full sun exposure, meaning 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun intensifies fall color and promotes dense canopy development. The tree tolerates partial shade but develops thinner canopies and less vibrant fall color. During establishment (first 3 to 4 years), water deeply every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season. Once established, the tree survives on natural rainfall in most climates, typically 15 to 25 inches annually. Supplemental irrigation during summer produces fuller canopies and more intense fall color. The tree tolerates drought well once mature but looks better with occasional deep watering.

How Fast Does Red Push Pistache Grow?

This selection grows at a moderate to fast rate, typically adding 2 to 3 feet per year under favorable conditions. Young trees establish quickly, providing useful shade within 5 to 7 years. Growth slows as trees mature, usually by 15 to 20 years of age. The relatively fast establishment makes Red Push valuable for projects requiring quicker shade tree development compared to slower-growing species like oak or elm.

What Wildlife Uses Red Push Pistache?

Birds occasionally nest in mature specimens, using the sturdy branching structure for support. The tree produces minimal fruit and provides limited wildlife food value compared to other Pistacia species. Deciduous foliage offers seasonal shade and shelter but no winter cover. The primary wildlife value comes from providing nesting sites and perching locations rather than food resources. For projects prioritizing wildlife habitat, consider supplementing with berry-producing shrubs and native plants.

What Soil Conditions Does It Need?

Red Push Pistache adapts to most well-drained soils including sandy, loamy, gravelly, and clay substrates. The tree tolerates soil pH from 6.0 to 8.5, handling both slightly acidic and alkaline conditions. Good drainage is important, though the tree tolerates heavier clay soils better than many desert-adapted trees. The selection grows successfully in poor, compacted urban soils without amendments. Avoid planting in constantly wet or poorly drained locations. The tree tolerates caliche layers and rocky soils common in southwestern landscapes.

What Challenges Should Designers Consider?

Red Push Pistache is male (does not produce fruit), eliminating concerns about messy fruit drop or volunteer seedlings. The tree has non-aggressive roots suitable for planting near hardscaping, though provide 8 to 10 feet clearance from structures. Verticillium wilt occasionally affects Pistacia species in infected soils, causing branch dieback. Plant in areas without history of wilt diseases. The tree may experience minor winter dieback in zone 6 during extreme cold but typically recovers. Plan for 30 to 35 feet of clearance for mature size near buildings and utilities. Occasional structural pruning during establishment develops strong framework.

What is the Origin and Development?

Red Push Pistache was selected and developed for its superior fall color and growth characteristics. The selection combines the hardiness and adaptability of Atlas Pistache with improved ornamental qualities. While the parent species originate in Mediterranean and Central Asian regions, Red Push was specifically bred for landscape performance in diverse North American climates. The cultivar demonstrates particular success in arid and semi-arid regions where consistent fall color can be challenging to achieve.

How Do You Use Red Push Pistache in Landscape Design?

Plant Red Push Pistache as a shade tree in residential yards, parks, and commercial landscapes where fall color provides seasonal interest. The tree works effectively as a street tree in urban settings, tolerating reflected heat, air pollution, and restricted root zones. Use in parking lots where shade and seasonal color enhance the pedestrian experience. The upright growth habit makes Red Push suitable for planting beneath power lines when properly maintained. Space trees 30 to 35 feet apart for individual canopy development in park and residential settings, or 25 to 30 feet apart for street tree plantings. Combine with evergreen trees and shrubs to maintain year-round landscape structure, or use in deciduous groves for dramatic seasonal transformation.

Why Choose Red Push Pistache for Your Project?

This cultivated selection delivers reliable fall color in challenging climates where many deciduous trees fail to perform. The combination of drought tolerance, urban adaptability, and spectacular seasonal color makes Red Push Pistache valuable for water-wise landscapes throughout diverse regions. The tree requires no fruit cleanup, tolerates poor soils and urban stress, and provides functional shade within reasonable timeframes. Non-aggressive roots and male flowers (fruitless) eliminate common maintenance concerns. For landscape architects working on municipal street tree projects, commercial developments, or residential designs where fall color and low maintenance are priorities, Red Push Pistache offers proven performance across USDA zones 6 through 9 with minimal inputs and maximum seasonal impact.