Light: At least 6 hours of direct sun, preferably morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid reflected heat from west-facing walls.
Water: Moderate to high water needs in Phoenix. Water deeply at the root zone, then allow the upper 1–2 inches of soil to dry slightly. Increase frequency during extreme summer heat; do not let the root zone dry completely.
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost; slightly acidic soil is preferred. Improve drainage in heavy clay and apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch, keeping it away from the crown.
Mature size: Typically 10–12 feet tall and 5–6 feet wide; can reach 15 feet tall with favorable conditions and support.
Bloom: Repeat blooms from spring through fall, with the strongest flushes in spring and fall. Flowering often slows during Phoenix’s extreme summer heat.
Evergreen / deciduous: Deciduous to semi-evergreen in Phoenix; may retain foliage through mild winters.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast once established.