Chilopsis linearis
Desert Willow
Description
This desert willow is open and airy as a small tree, and with age develops shaggy bark and twisting trunks. The fragrant flowers of the tree appear in spring or summer while the leaves will drop early. Large brown capsules appear in fall which are attractive to wildlife. Pruning this 25' tree can make it very attractive. Needs good drainage with loam or sandy soil in full sun. Is rather unattractive in winter. Native in desert washes to 5000'. Some supplemental water will improve appearance. Moderately fast growth. Seed pods are persistant. Cannot tolerate overwatering. Flowers on new wood. Hummingbirds are attracted to the flowers. Bark is light green or light gray, exfoliating. Dry fruit produces some litter.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Width Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Pink, Purple
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green, Light Green
Bark Color
Green, Grey
Fruit Color
Brown
Fruit Season
Fall
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Messy
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Background, Lawn, Patio, Parking Lot, Street Tree, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Hummingbirds, Wildlife
Move turf away form sidewalks and pavement.
Instead plant shrubs or groundcovers next to the pavement, and water with low-flow drip or bubbler system to eliminate runoff from turf sprinklers