Desert Willow

Desert Willow:

COMMON NAME: Desert Willow

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Chilopsis linearis

DESCRIPTION:

Called a willow, but not a willow; desert willow has long narrow willow-like leaves. It is a large deciduous shrub or tree with a weeping form; it may grow to 20 feet. The pink-purple flowers bloom April –September. Their ruffled trumpet-shape resembles an orchid; they are fragrant and attract hummingbirds and bumblebees. The seeds are hairy and will over-winter on the bare branches in long pods. They are an important source of food for birds during the winter months.

Common in dry washes throughout much of the southwest United States, desert willow grows between 1500 – 5000 feet.

Cultivation: Desert willow likes moderate water (once a month during the summer) & sun. It is easy to grow. It has a natural shrubby form with basal suckers. Occasional pruning will give it a neater appearance; heavy and constant pruning will be needed to achieve tree form.

 

 
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