Chilopsis linearis - DESERT WILLOW
Desert Willow is a striking, drought-tolerant small tree or large shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Known for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers and graceful, weeping form, this species thrives in arid climates and is widely used in xeriscaping and native plant gardens. Pack of 25 seeds.
Details
Common Names: Desert Willow, Flowering-Willow, Willowleaf Catalpa, Desert Catalpa, Flor de Mimbre, Mimbre, Bow Willow, False-Willow, Jano, Catalpa-willow
Botanical Name: Chilopsis linearis
Name Meaning:
- Chilopsis: Greek cheilos, "lip" + opsis, "resemblance", which highlights the distinctive, lip-like shape of the flowers.
- linearis: Latin linear, "narrow", describing the plant's long, slender leaves.
Plant Family: Bignoniaceae (trumpet vines)
Native Range: North America (deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico)
Grow Zone (Hardiness): 7 - 10 (0°F) Find my zone
Bloom: In spring through early autumn, tree produces showy, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white, followed by long, slender seed capsules.
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Water: Low (1)
Growth Rate/Habit: Moderate to fast/Vigorous and upright
Mature Size: 15-30 ft. tall x 10-25 ft. wide
We recommend planting these in our Seed Starter Soil.
- First year: Water deeply and consistently once or twice a week to help the roots establish. Established plants: Once established, desert willows are very drought-tolerant and require very little supplemental water. Water only when the soil is dry. Seasonal watering: Occasional summer watering can encourage more blooms. Avoid watering in the fall and winter when the tree is dormant.
Note: Despite its name, Desert Willow is not a true willow (Salix spp.) but belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, which includes other ornamental flowering trees like catalpa and jacaranda.
Image 2 by Chic Bee/Flickr; image 3 by Tracie Hall/Flickr; image 4 by Stan Shebs/Wikipedia; image 5 by Steve Hurst/USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database