Desert Willow
(Chilopsis linearis)



The Desert willow is a member of the Bignoniaceae family.

Height:
The Desert willow grows up to 25ft tall with a trunk with a diameter of 12”

Leaf and Bark Type:
Leaves are green, simple, usually alternate but sometimes opposite, linear, with a length of 4” to 12” and a width of 0.5”. The margins are smooth and the leaf is pointed at the tip. Bark is smooth and brown on young trunks and turns darker and rougher with age.

Where does it grow and in what conditions:
In Texas, this plant occurs in the west on dry stream channels with porous soils. It does poorly when over watered, but can withstand seasonal flooding and can even be found in the middle of drainage channels.

Pollinators:
Desert willow is pollinated by insects. Even though the tree has both male and female flowers on it, it is unable to self pollinate, and requires the assistance of these insects to reproduce.

Fruit:
The fruit of the Desert willow is a long pod that is 7” to 12” in length.It's slender, woody, and contains many small seeds.

Uses:
Dried flowers of the tree are sold as remedies for a variety of resporatory ailments. The leaves and bark may also be used in tea to remedy these ailments. Flower blossoms and seed pods can be eaten for food, with the bark being used to make fabric for clothing. These plants are also popular ornamental trees.

GPS Location

 
Submitted by Larrimer
Pictures coming soon

Citations:
https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_chli2.pdf
http://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=chli2
http://www.aridzonetrees.com/AZT%20Guest%20Articles/Desert%20Willow_Not%20Just%20Another%20Pretty%20Face.htm