HOW TO GROW & CARE FOR DESERT WILLOW TREES

Botanical name:

Chilopsis linearis

Common names:

Desert willow, flowering willow, willowleaf catalpa, bow willow, flor de mimbre (a Spanish term that translates to "flower of willow")

Plant type:

Deciduous tree

Zones:

Typically 7-10 (with some cultivars cold hardy down to zone 5), handles occasional frost with ease

Native range:

Native across much of the southwestern U.S., including Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and California, extending into parts of northern Mexico

Exposure:

Full sun

Size:

15 to 30 feet tall, 10 to 25 feet wide

Growth rate:

Moderate to fast

Flowers:

Trumpet-shaped blooms with ruffled petals are similar in appearance to orchid flowers. They may be shades of pink, purple, lavender, or white, often with intricate streaks or patterns in their throats. With the exception of sterile cultivars, the blooms are followed by long, bean-like seed pods.

Foliage:

Long and narrow with a pointed tip, similar to a willow leaf. Typically light to medium green in color.

Landscape uses:

Specimen plant, erosion control, xeriscaping, shade tree, windbreak or privacy screen, desert gardens.

Special attributes:

Photo by: Nikolay Kurzenko / Shutterstock

When to plant:

Plant during the cooler months of fall or early spring to allow the roots to establish before the heat of summer arrives.

Where to plant:

Native to dry streambeds, arroyos, and washes in desert regions, Chilopsis grows best in hot climates with low humidity. For optimal bloom production, choose a planting site with full sun exposure (at least 6 to 8 hours daily) and excellent drainage. To accommodate the desert willow’s graceful, spreading branches, plant at least 10 to 15 feet away from buildings, walls, or other structures.

Soil:

Prefers well-drained limestone soils, but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including dry clay, loam, and sand, provided that drainage is adequate. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils that retain excessive moisture, which can lead to root rot.

How to plant:

Dig a hole twice as wide and slightly shallower than the tree’s root ball. Remove the plant from its container, gently loosen the roots, and then place it in the hole with the root crown slightly above ground level to promote proper drainage and prevent rot. Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets and ensure good soil-to-root contact.

After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. To help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk.

Photo by: Bonnie Talylor Barry / Shutterstock

Watering:

The first year after planting, desert willow needs consistent moisture to establish its roots. Water deeply once or twice a week, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Once established, Chilopsis thrives with minimal watering because its deep roots are highly efficient at accessing groundwater. During extended dry spells or extreme heat, a deep watering once every three to four weeks during the growing season is usually sufficient and will encourage more consistent flowering. However, it’s important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

Amendments & fertilizer:

Because desert willows thrive in nutrient-poor soil, fertilizing is usually unnecessary. However, if growth seems sluggish, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Be careful not to overfertilize, which can result in rapid growth and weak branches that are more susceptible to damage from strong winds. An overload of nutrients may also reduce flower production.

Because desert willows are well-adapted to poor soils, amendments typically are not required. However, if your soil is heavy clay, consider incorporating organic matter at planting to improve drainage.

Pruning:

Chilopsis naturally develops multiple trunks and numerous branches, giving it a shrubby appearance. If you prefer a tree-like form, prune as needed to remove the lower branches and suckers at the base of the plant. This promotes upward growth and helps create a more defined, central trunk.

The ideal time to prune flowering willow is during its dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. This allows the tree to form callus over pruning cuts before new growth begins. Additionally, a light pruning during the summer will encourage fresh growth and more abundant flowering, since the desert willow blooms on new wood.

Diseases and pests:

Desert willows are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but be on the lookout for aphids and spider mites. Root rot can occur in overly wet, poorly drained soil.

'BUBBA'

A fast-growing Texas native boasting lush, glossy green foliage set off by colorful two-toned flowers in shades of pink and burgundy.
Mature size: Up to 25 feet tall and wide

ART'S SEEDLESS®

True to its name, this seedless cultivar produces an abundance of large rosy pink blooms, but no seeds, eliminating the mess of fallen seed pods.
Mature size: Up to 25 feet tall and wide

'LUCRETIA HAMILTON'

Smaller than most desert willows, this compact variety dazzles with bright fuchsia blooms all summer, perfect for tight spaces or large containers.
Mature size: 12 to 18 feet tall and wide

'SWEET KATIE BURGUNDY'

Striking burgundy trumpet-shaped flowers with pink undertones and yellow throats bloom continuously from late spring to fall.

TIMELESS BEAUTY®

Another seedless variety, featuring tubular bi-colored blooms in shades of burgundy and pale lavender.

'HOPE'

An exceptionally cold-hardy cultivar (down to zone 5), featuring frilly, pure white flowers set against a backdrop of willowy green foliage.
Mature size: 12 to 15 feet tall and wide

What are the cons of the desert willow tree?

While desert willows are highly desirable for their ease of maintenance, drought tolerance, and showy tropical-looking flowers, they do come with a few drawbacks. Having an open, airy canopy, they provide limited shade compared to denser trees. They also lose their foliage in winter, leaving the branches bare during the colder months.

Although Chilopsis can tolerate occasional frost, exposure to extended periods of temperatures below 10° F may damage or even kill the tree if protection isn’t provided. This makes the plant unsuitable for areas with harsh, prolonged winters.

How fast do desert willow trees grow?

Under ideal conditions, Chilopsis has a moderate to fast growth rate. When given full sunlight and occasional deep watering, expect your plant to grow 2 to 3 feet each year.

Are desert willow trees invasive?

While the desert willow is not classified as being invasive, its adaptability and ability to self-seed prolifically in favorable conditions can sometimes lead to plants spreading beyond intended areas. To prevent the spread from becoming problematic, monitor your plant’s growth and remove any unwanted seedlings.

Is desert willow a good tree for xeriscaping?

Absolutely! The desert willow is an outstanding choice for xeriscaping, thriving effortlessly in dry, arid environments. Once established, it exhibits exceptional drought tolerance, even under extreme heat and intense sunlight.

Do desert willow trees drop seeds?

With the exception of seedless cultivars, such as Art’s Seedless® and El Niño® Desert Orchid, most desert willows produce seed pods as part of their natural growth cycle. These bean-like pods, typically 6 to 12 inches long, contain numerous seeds that are dispersed by the wind once the pods dry and split open. The pods typically persist on the tree through the winter, providing a reliable food source for foraging birds.

Are desert willow flowers fragrant?

Yes, Chilopsis flowers are known for their delightful fragrance, having a scent often described as sweet with delicate floral notes. The scent acts as a beacon for pollinators like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, ensuring successful pollination and contributing to the tree's reproduction.

What is the lifespan of a desert willow tree?

With proper care and favorable environmental conditions, a desert willow can live for 50 years or more, making it a durable and long-lasting addition to gardens and landscapes.