• The desert willow tree (Chilopsis linearis) grows in dry, hot climates. It resembles a true willow with long, narrow attractive leaves, and produces lightly scented tubular flowers from May through October. The seed pods are 4-12 inches long. In addition to the landscape value of the desert willow, there are several other uses for this tree.
  
  

Practical Uses

• The wood from the desert willow tree has been used by Native American tribes to craft hunting bows. The Pima tribe used wood and twigs to construct houses, thatch roofs and make baskets. The fibrous bark has been used to make nets and fabrics. The desert willow tree has been used as a hedge since it has a multi-trunked, well branched habit of thick growth.
  
  

Medcinal Uses

• The desert willow has a variety of chemical constitutes found in its flowers, leaves and bark that have medicinal uses. The flowers contain anthocyanin pigments and it is suggested that these pigments have pharmaceutical effects in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and ophthalmology. The desert willow also has a chemical compound called polyphenol that has antioxidant value if taken with anthocyanins. Leaves and branches contain alkanes and squalene. Alkanes are found to strengthen immune defenses against diseases. Squalene is found in many health food products. The desert willow's wood and bark contain flavonoids called lapachol. Lapachol is being researched as an anti-tumor and anti-viral compound. A derivative of lapachol has been found to interfere with the replication of HIV-1 and slowed the advancement of the AIDS disease.
  
  

Natural Uses

• The desert willow is native to southwestern United States and northern Mexico. In its natural setting, it protects against soil erosion and flooding. Desert willow is important to wild animals, providing nesting sites and shelter. Deer and birds feed on leaves, fruit and flowers of the desert willow tree. Bees consume the flower nectar and produce honey.