Chilopsis linearis, Bignoniaceae

A neat example of convergent evolution, this shrub looks very much like a willow and grows in similar habitat, yet is not closely related. Anza Borrego Desert State Park, California.

comments (3)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Can you elaborate a bit about the topic of convergent evolution? Posted 9 years ago
1. jeanniner9
  
  Eagle Owl
  
  Sure. Convergent evolution is when two organisms that are not closely related look superficially very similar because they have been subject to similar evolutionary selective press ures. In this case, Chilopsis has very long, thin leaves and a rambling, shrubby growth form, similar to many willow species, but unlike most other Bignoniaceae. Posted 9 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    Thanks for the explanation! Posted 9 years ago

The Desert-willow

''Chilopsis'' is a monotypic genus of flowering plants containing the single species ''Chilopsis linearis''.

It is a shrub or tree native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. The common name is desert willow or desert-willow because of its willow-like leaves, but it is a member of the catalpa family, Bignoniaceae. It is commonly seen in washes and along riverbanks at elevations below 1800m in its range.

Info 1 0

Similar species: Lamiales

Species identified by jeanniner9