Chilopsis linearis, also known as desert willow, is a small tree or large shrub that can grow anywhere from 15 to 40 feet at maturity. The flower is popularly known for its striking resemblance to that of a willow tree, but is actually a member of the Catalpa family, Bignoniaceae, rather than the Salicaceae family. It is centrally found in Baja as well as southern California, south Texas and even Mexico. C. linearis is a deciduous shrub or small tree with elongated leaves that resembles a willow tree. It produces trumpet-like flowers that can range in colors of light pink, white, and light purple. The plant prefers dry to medium moisture levels with neutral alkaline pH. This species prefers full sun, so plant in very sunny locations, and be sure your planting site is well-draining. This plant thrives in desert/hot-dry regions. Water regularly during establishment and then occasionally during the summer months. Do not oversaturate. Plants can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) and as high as 120°F (49°C). This species typically flowers from May through June. C. linearis is typically grown as an ornamental for its beautiful flowers attracting bees and hummingbirds for its nectar. It can develop a deep root system helping erosion control in arid and dry regions. The flower, bark, and leaves can be medical in hot poultices and tea used to treat coughing, fungal infections such as athlete's foot. Tea from the flower produces a natural anti-oxidant which promotes cardiovascular health and regulates glucose metabolism.
Sow the Chilopsis linearis seeds no deeper than ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep as the seeds require light to germinate. Plant the seeds in a moist, but not soaking wet potting/germination medium. Seeds typically take 1 to 3 weeks to germinate. Even with optimal germination conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.