SafePlants

Desert Willow: A Southwestern Beauty

The desert willow, often seen gracing hot, dry landscapes, offers a touch of elegance with its delicate, willow-like leaves and captivating blooms. While frequently found near golf courses and residential areas, its natural charm is undeniable.

Considerations for Pets

• The text describes desert willow as a slender-twigged tree or shrub.
• The plant can be found in home gardens.

Considerations for Children

• The text describes desert willow as a slender-twigged tree or shrub.
• The plant can be found in elementary school gardens.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Chilopsis linearis
• Common Names: Desert willow, desert-willow

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Bignoniaceae (Catalpa family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to west Texas and the Edwards Plateau.
• Well-known in hot, dry areas.
• Found in locations such as Palm Desert, California; Albuquerque, NM; and Van Horn, Texas.

Morphological Characteristics

• A slender-twigged, small tree or large shrub, typically 15-40 ft tall.
• Often features a leaning, twisting trunk and open, spreading crown.
• Deciduous, with long, narrow leaves resembling those of willows.

Ecological Role

• Attracts birds.
• Provides summer shade.

Quirky Facts

• One specimen in McFarland, CA, is described as being 30+ feet tall, exceeding the typical height of 15 feet.

Further Information

• Additional details, such as size, height, growth rate, sun and soil preference, can be found at arborday.org.