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Desert Willow

Chilopsis linearsis

true

1 gallon; 5 gallon; 15 gallon

Desert Willow

In stock

25’x25’

Sizes:

Desert Willow – Chilopsis linearis

Common along dry washes throughout the Southwest, Desert Willow is a deciduous small tree or large shrub that typically grows in a shrubby, multi-trunked form. Mature specimens generally reach 15 to 25 feet tall with a spreading canopy, though they can grow larger under favorable conditions. It can also be trained as a small, single-trunk patio tree. Its long, narrow, bright green leaves give it a soft, willowy appearance despite being unrelated to true willows.

One of its most ornamental features is the profusion of large, fragrant, orchid-like flowers produced through the warmer months. Flowers range from white to deep pink and attract a wide variety of pollinators, particularly native bees. Hummingbirds, butterflies, hawkmoths, and other insects also visit the flowers.

As a deciduous tree, Desert Willow is particularly useful around desert homes and outdoor living spaces. Its leafy canopy provides summer shade, then drops in winter to allow the lower winter sun through. Its natural canopy is relatively open, providing dappled rather than dense shade.

Desert Willow thrives in full sun and well-drained soils and tolerates reflected heat. Although well adapted to our arid climate, it naturally grows along washes, arroyos, and other areas that periodically receive additional water. Established trees can withstand dry periods, but desert-adapted does not mean no water. Occasional deep irrigation that mimics the periodic water it receives in its natural habitat will help support healthy growth and flowering.

Wildlife Value
Host Plant: Desert Willow Looper (Eucaterva variaria)

Nectar Source: White-lined Sphinx Moth (Hyles lineata); Monarch (Danaus plexippus); Queen (Danaus gilippus); Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae); Native Bees

Bird Resources: Nectar; Seeds; Insects; Nesting; Cover

Bird Species: Gambel's Quail (Callipepla gambelii); Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus); Verdin (Auriparus flaviceps); Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus); Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae)

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native; Mojave Desert

Water needs:

Low -Moderate

Exposure:

Full Sun; Partial Shade

Mature size:

25’x25’

Growth rate:

Moderate-Fast

Flower color:

Lavender

Flower season:

Spring; Summer; Fall

Pruning:

Naturally a large shrub. Prune to form a tree if desired

Cold Hardiness:

0 Degrees but winter deciduous

Nectar-producing:

Yes

Attracts pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Yes

Butterflies or Moths:

Yes

Monarchs:

Yes

Larval host:

Yes

Bees:

Yes

Bats:

Yes

Birds:

Yes

Nest site:

Yes

Nest materials:

Yes

Rabbit-resistant:

Yes

Tortoises:

Yes

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on reliable research, personal experience in my own garden, observations from other gardens I’ve visited, and time spent studying plants in their native habitats. I always welcome your feedback and experiences to help me continue educating others!

Cacti:
In my experience, cacti are much happier in filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Their colors are more vibrant and they tend to bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you look closely at how our native barrel cactus and beavertail prickly pear grow in the wild, you’ll often find them tucked among rocks or beneath the shelter of creosote and other shrubs.

⚠️ A note of caution: Cacti and succulents are often illegally collected from the wild, which not only damages plant populations but also disturbs entire ecosystems. In some cases, wild populations of cacti have even gone extinct because of this practice. When purchasing these plants, always be sure they’ve been legally obtained. Look for nursery-grown stock or plants with a native plant certification, and keep that documentation for your records.

Light Requirements:
In our desert (Sonoran/Colorado), “full sun” doesn’t always mean what you might think. Many so-called full-sun plants benefit from and actually appreciate some late-afternoon filtered light—especially during the intense summer months.