Description:
The genus Chilopsis
contains a single species. It is native to Texas and northern Mexico. Soil
with very good drainage is crucial to its success in north Florida. Desert
willow leaves are long and narrow. The showy flowers are produced in early
summer and can be found in various shades of pink. It can grow into a small
tree up to thirty feet tall. The wood and bark of this tree are reported to
contain a chemical that has anti-tumor and anti-viral properties. A derivative
of this chemical may be useful in the treatment of AIDS.
Care Instructions:
Light: full sun
Water: drought tolerant
Soil: well-drained, no other special requirements
In northeast Florida, do not pamper this Texas native. Give it a hot, sunny site with a sandy, well drained soil. It will not survive in a heavy, wet soil.
