Tree
Desert Willow
Chilopsis linearis
Orchid-like blooms all summer on a graceful small tree. Hummingbird magnet for hot yards.
- Pollinator
- Hummingbird
- Native
Quick facts
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 7–11
- Water
- Low once established
- Sun
- Full sun
- Size
- 15–25 ft tall × 10–25 ft wide
- Bloom & interest
- Orchid-like pink, burgundy or white trumpet flowers, late spring through summer
- Plant type
- Tree
- Native range
- Native to the desert Southwest (TX, NM, AZ, NV, UT, CA) along washes
Why we recommend it
The gold-standard low-water ornamental tree for arid regions: thrives on rainfall once established, blooms for months, is widely available, native and non-invasive.
Best regions: SouthwestTexasSouthern California
How to grow it
Watering to establish
Deep-water every 1–2 weeks the first two summers; established trees bloom best with a deep monthly soak in summer.
Pruning
Prune in late winter to choose one or several trunks and lift the canopy; remove seed pods if you dislike the look.
Soil
Well-drained soil of any type, including alkaline. Winter-dormant: leaves appear late in spring.
Pairs well with
Read more
Where to buy
Shop Desert Willow from trusted growers. For the best selection of xeric plants, try a mail-order specialist or ask a local independent nursery.
- High Country Gardens (opens in a new tab)Xeric specialist
- Nature Hills Nursery (opens in a new tab)Wide selection
- American Meadows (opens in a new tab)Perennials & seeds
- Etsy (opens in a new tab)Small growers
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