Desert Willow

Desert Willow is a small, deciduous, flowering tree growing 15’-25’ wide.
Although the tree is not in the willow family, its foliage is long and narrow
like a willow. Its airy leaves create a light shade that allows plants to grow
underneath. The tree is a fast-growing and drought-tolerant. Flowers appear
from spring to fall and vary from white to pink to burgundy.

Planting Sites: Desert Willow prefers well-drained sand, caliche, loam or clay soils. It blooms best in full sun, but
tolerates some shade.

Planting Instructions: Dig hole 2 to 3 times larger than, but the same depth as, the nursery container. Carefully
remove plant from container and gently loosen any compacted soil around the root ball. Plant at the same depth
as the soil in the container. Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch.

Watering Instructions: If planting in spring, water well after planting, using root stimulator according to directions.
For at least 3 months, water deeply every 7-10 days to promote deep roots that will withstand drought. May skip
a watering after a rainfall of ½” to 1”. Once established, desert willow is very drought-tolerant. Allow to dry out
between waterings, as this will encourage more extensive waves of blooms. Avoid excessive water and fertilizer,
as that can lead to overly rapid growth, fewer blooms, and a weaker plant.

Comments: Seeds sprout easily but don’t necessarily come true to the parent. Prune to remove suckers, raise the
canopy, or create a single trunked tree. Flowers attract butterflies and seeds attract birds. Moderately deer
resistant.

Planting and care instructions provided by the
Lindheimer Chapters of the Native Plant Society of Texas.