Pistachios are the seeds of a medium sized tree native to Iran, Syria, Greece, Turkey, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The trees are slow to mature and are most productive at 20 years old. The trees grow best in desert areas, and tolerates very salty soil.

Pistachio shells pop open when they are ripe. They are most often sold roasted and salted and just eaten plain, but they can also be used in desserts and some other types of food.