Desert Orchid

Chitalpas are deciduous flowering trees and large shrubs created by crossing catalpa with desert willow. Their upright trumpet-shaped flowers and tolerance of heat make them useful where a long-flowering ornamental is wanted, while mature size and hardiness vary among cultivars. ## Siting and growth Choose a sunny to partly shaded site with room for a spreading crown and a well-drained root zone. [Utah State University Extension](https://extension.usu.edu/treebrowser/catalog/chitalpa) describes chitalpa as a fast-growing, multi-trunked small shade tree, lists zones 6–9, and notes tolerance of heat, alkaline soil, and drought after establishment. The [Société Nationale d’Horticulture de France](https://www.snhf.org/fiche-plante/chitalpa-de-tachkent/) describes the hybrid’s range of forms and notes that size differs substantially by cultivar; for example, ‘Morning Cloud’ is listed at 3–9 m. ## Flowers and use Flower color and flowering period depend on the selection. Chitalpas generally produce showy clusters in late spring or summer, and some selections are valued for fragrance. Use an identified cultivar’s own size and care guidance when planning spacing rather than treating one cultivar’s dimensions as universal for the hybrid group. ## Maintenance Water young plants through their first growing seasons and during prolonged dry spells. Once established, adjust irrigation to local rainfall and soil drainage. Prune in early spring to shape the framework or remove damaged wood, taking care not to apply a cultivar’s specific size or hardiness to every chitalpa.