Desert Willow Chilopsis linearis 100 Seeds

Chilopsis linearis, commonly known as Desert Willow, is a drought-tolerant, deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Despite its common name, Desert Willow is not a true willow but belongs to the family Bignoniaceae, which includes trumpet vines and catalpas.

Desert Willow typically grows to heights of 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 meters) with a spread of 10 to 25 feet (3 to 7.5 meters). It has long, narrow leaves that are arranged alternately along the stems. The leaves are typically light green and may turn yellow and drop in response to drought stress.

One of the most striking features of Chilopsis linearis is its flowers, which resemble those of true willows but are much larger and showier. The flowers, which appear in late spring to early summer, are trumpet-shaped and range in color from pink to lavender to white. They are often fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

After flowering, Desert Willow produces long, slender seed pods that contain numerous small seeds. These pods persist on the tree into the fall and may provide food for wildlife.

Desert Willow is well-adapted to hot, dry climates and thrives in well-draining soils with plenty of sunlight. It is commonly found in arid regions, including deserts, foothills, and along watercourses where it can access underground water sources.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and ornamental beauty, making it a popular choice for landscaping in arid regions. Additionally, it has cultural significance for some Indigenous peoples of the southwestern United States, who have traditionally used its wood for various purposes. Hardy in zones 5-9.

Growing Instructions

1. Soak the seed in water for several hours.
2. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet.
3. Sow the seeds on the soil. Don’t cover them with soil because they need light to germinate.
4. Water the seeds.
5. Place the pots in an area with warm temperatures in full sun. The seeds usually germinate in 1-3 weeks.
6. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.