The North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association (NCNLA) and North Carolina Cooperative Extension are pleased to announce our sixth year of Showstopper Plants.
Nominated by North Carolina nurserymen and selected by North Carolina Cooperative Extension horticulture experts, the 2013 Showstopper Plants are must have plants for any North Carolina landscaping. These featured plants are promising new cultivars or iron-clad plants that will thrive across the region. They are featured in Extension Gardener Learning Centers at home and garden shows throughout North Carolina.
Look for Chinese Pistache in area North Carolina nurseries.
Tough as nails, drought tolerant and pest free are all terms used to describe this year’s Showstopper tree selection, the Chinese Pistache. This beautiful medium-sized tree is perfect for both the home landscape and the urban environment.
An unattractive almost gawky tree when young, Chinese Pistache develops into an outstanding specimen tree with an umbrella-like crown. At maturity this tree will obtain a height of 40 feet and a spread of 25 to 35 feet.
Chinese Pistache has finely divided, lustrous green foliage during the summer months and terrific fall color. The fiery orange and red leaves make this Asian native one of the prettiest trees in autumn. Other than a requirement for well drained soil, this plant will flourish in nearly every soil type. Transplant one into your landscape – you’ll be glad you did.
Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9
Words by: Helen Yoest
Sponsored by the North Carolina Nursery and Landscape Association