Light: Full sun, ideally 6–8 hours daily; afternoon shade is beneficial in Phoenix, especially for young trees. Avoid intense reflected heat.
Water: Water deeply, then allow the upper few inches of soil to dry before watering again. Established trees generally need irrigation every 7–14 days in summer and every 3–6 weeks in winter, adjusted for soil, weather, and rainfall. Young and container-grown trees need more frequent watering.
Soil: Well-drained soil; sandy loam preferred. Tolerates Phoenix’s alkaline soils with appropriate nutrient management. Keep the root flare above grade and avoid persistently wet soil.
Mature size: Typically 15–20 feet tall and wide; dwarf rootstocks and pruning can maintain a smaller tree.
Bloom: Primarily late winter through spring, with occasional additional blooms during warm weather.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast with adequate irrigation and citrus fertilizer.