Desert Willow
(Chilopsis linearis)
Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)
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Miwasatoshi
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Miwasatoshi
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Miwasatoshi | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Miwasatoshi | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Chilopsis-linearis-20070910-3.JPG | Notes: pattypan 20.04 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Chilopsis linearis, commonly known as Desert Willow, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to arid regions such as washes and fluvial deposits in the Southwestern United States and Mexico. It exhibits a variable growth habit, ranging from 1.5 to 8 meters in height, and can take the form of a multi-stemmed shrub or a small tree with a weeping appearance. The narrow, willow-like leaves are 10 to 26 cm long and a few millimeters wide, typically found on branches that form an open, airy crown.
Desert Willow is celebrated for its large, showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, lavender, and white, often with yellow throats and purple streaks, from late spring to early fall. The flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that persist into winter, providing visual interest. This plant is highly valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens. It is also used for erosion control and as a wildlife attractant, particularly for hummingbirds. Desert Willow prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-draining. It is low-maintenance, requiring minimal water once established, and can be pruned to maintain a desired shape. Cultivars like ’Rio Salado’ offer variations in flower color, such as dark purple or magenta blooms.CC BY-SA 4.0
Desert Willow is celebrated for its large, showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, lavender, and white, often with yellow throats and purple streaks, from late spring to early fall. The flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that persist into winter, providing visual interest. This plant is highly valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens. It is also used for erosion control and as a wildlife attractant, particularly for hummingbirds. Desert Willow prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-draining. It is low-maintenance, requiring minimal water once established, and can be pruned to maintain a desired shape. Cultivars like ’Rio Salado’ offer variations in flower color, such as dark purple or magenta blooms.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
- Height: 15-30 feet
- Width: 12-25 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Arid regions such as washes and fluvial deposits in the Southwestern United States and Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Desert-Willow, Ökentrumpet
Scientific Names: , Chilopsis linearis,
GBIF Accepted Name: Chilopsis linearis (Cav.) Sweet