The Pistacia genus has 11 species. Some of the species play an important role in vegetation in the Mediterranean and Asian regions. While the Kerman variety accounts for about 99 percent of all pistachio production in California (AGROSTRAT, 2019). Here are some common varieties of pistachios:
- Kerman: Great size and good quality. Selected in Iran, it was introduced in the USA and it is also cultivated in Spain (in Castilla-La Mancha).
- Akbari: Super long pistachio that has the highest economic value among other varieties in Iran. Popular cultivar in Iran.
- Ahmad Aghaei/Aghaii: Long pistachio which is the newest commercial variety, very popular with the farmers. Popular cultivar in Iran.
- Kale Ghouchi: Jumbo pistachio. This cultivar is famous for being large. Popular cultivar in Iran.
- Red Aleppo: Smaller nut size, crisper kernel. Popular cultivar in Syria.
- Napoletana: Predominant variety in Sicily.
- Sirora: A variety with high vigor, and high production. Popular cultivar in Australia.
- Uzun: Pistachio nut of average size, long and clear green. It is cultivated in Turkey.
- Kirmizi: Pistachio nut of average size and reddish colour. Along with the cultivar Uzum, it is the most cultivated variety in Turkey.
- Batouri: Thick fruit of whitish colour and good quality. Important cultivar in Syria.
- Sefideh-Montaz and Imperiale de Dameghan: The fruit of these varieties is round, thick and yellowish. Very appreciated in Iran.
- Aegina: Medium size fruit, long and similar to Mateur. It comes from Greece and it also gives good results in Spain.
Sources:
Pistachio Cultivars
Pistachio Nut, Pistachia Vera / Anacardiaceae
Pistachio Market Guide