Light: Full sun to light shade; in Phoenix, morning sun with some afternoon shade helps prevent summer scorch. Acclimate gradually to stronger sun.
Water: Low water once established; let soil dry thoroughly between deep waterings. Container plants need more frequent checks during extreme heat. Water very sparingly in winter.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; use gritty cactus/succulent mix in containers and raised planting areas where native soil drains poorly.
Mature size: Typically 4–8 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide; may grow larger in warm, frost-free locations. Usually smaller in containers.
Bloom: Tiny, inconspicuous flowers may appear in spring or summer on established plants; flowering is uncommon in containers.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent stems; tiny, short-lived leaves drop early, leaving a mostly leafless appearance.
Growth rate: Moderate in warm weather; slower with drought, cool temperatures, or container restriction.