Desert Willow

Chitalpa x tashkentensis Summer Bells, also known as the Desert Willow, is a rather fantastic hybrid of Catalpa and Chilopsis; the original work for the cross was performed at the Uzbek Academy of Science in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in the 1960s.

Introduced into Europe and internationally a decade later, this stunning small hybrid tends to grow up with a 1.8-2m clear stem and rounded crown on top. 

The foliage is bright green, and the leaves tend to be fairly thin, elongated, and abundant, like large willow leaves, hence the connection with the common name Desert Willow. 

The exotic flowers appear in June/July. They are profuse, frilly trumpet-shaped, light pink in colour, and yellow throats. These flowers tend to persist on the tree for the remainder of the summer. In autumn, the bright green leaves turn yellow.

Whilst Chitalpa x tashkentensis Summer Bells is hardy to the UK climate, it is best planted in a sheltered position, in full sun, and on well-drained soils.

Being a small, round headed tree at maturity, this stunning specimen is the perfect choice for small gardens where summer interest is of key importance. 

Being such an unusual and pretty specimen makes the Desert Willow a fine addition to arboretum collections.

Mature Height: 3-7m

Common names

Desert Willow

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Blossom Colour

White

Foliage Colour

Green

Information Flags

Good for bees

Looks good in

Summer

Location

Garden

Genus

Chitalpa