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 flowers of the tree appear in spring and through the fall while the leaves will drop early. Pruning this 25' tree can make it very attractive. Needs good drainage. Is rather unattractive in winter. Native in desert washes to 5000'. Some supplemental water will improve appearance. Moderately fast. Seed pods are persistant. Cannot tolerate overwatering. Flowers on new wood.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Width Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Lavender, Pink, Purple, White
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green, Light Green
Bark Color
Grey, Tan
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
Spring, Summer
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Background, Lawn, Parking Strip, Patio, Parking Lot, Street Tree
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Hummingbirds, Butterflies
Water Saving Tip:
Water high water-use plants separately from low water-use plants.
Low water-use plants can grow with one-half the water needed by high water-use plants, and can be easily damaged from over watering.