All flowers
Desert Willow Wikimedia Commons
Bignoniaceae

Desert Willow

Chilopsis linearis

Resilience in harsh conditions.

Family
Bignoniaceae
Genus
Chilopsis
Native to
Southwestern United States, Northern Mexico
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
deciduous tree
Height
15-30 ft
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
well-drained, sandy or gravelly
Water
low
Hardiness
7-11
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Despite its name, Desert Willow is not a true willow but belongs to the trumpet vine family.
  • Native Americans used the bark to make baskets and the wood for bows and hunting implements.
  • Its flowers produce nectar that attracts hummingbirds and large carpenter bees as primary pollinators.
  • The tree can survive on as little as 10 inches of rainfall per year once established.
  • Desert Willow seed pods can reach up to 12 inches long, resembling slender bean pods that persist through winter.

Color meanings

0

endurance

1

grace under pressure

Uses

  • ornamental landscaping
  • erosion control
  • traditional medicine