Chilopsis Plant Care

Chilopsis (Bulnesia chilensis) belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family within the Bulnesia genus. Chilopsis is native to the Atacama and Coquimbo regions in northern Chile.

Chilopsis displays a tall, upright tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 ft tall with a spread of approximately 15 ft. Chilopsis produces small yellow flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Chilopsis every 7–14 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established trees mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Chilopsis thrives in full sun.

Bulnesia chilensis tolerates temperatures of 60–90°F. Chilopsis prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Chilopsis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Chilopsis every 8 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established trees in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with full sun and well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Chilopsis is suited to USDA Zone 9b – 11b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped trees in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Chilopsis can spread to about 15 ft (4.6 m) and reach about 30 ft (9 m) tall. Space plants about 15 ft (4.6 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the tree spacing calculator.

Prune Chilopsis while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the tree in one year.

Chilopsis is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 9). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Chilopsis can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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Chilopsis is susceptible to aphids, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Chilopsis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 9b. Chilopsis is native to the Atacama and Coquimbo regions in northern Chile. In cooler regions, grow Chilopsis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.