Light: Full sun; thrives in Phoenix heat and reflected sunlight.
Water: Very low water once established. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Occasional summer irrigation supports growth; newly planted trees need more regular watering while establishing.
Soil: Well-drained sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil; tolerates alkaline desert soils. Avoid poorly drained sites.
Mature size: Generally 20–30 feet tall and wide; very old trees may grow larger.
Bloom: Clusters of flowers in late spring, usually April–May in Phoenix; flowering intensity varies with rainfall and weather.
Evergreen / deciduous: Mostly evergreen; may shed leaves during drought, cold weather, or shortly before flowering.
Growth rate: Slow; somewhat faster with careful supplemental irrigation.