Light: Bright light to full morning sun; provide afternoon shade in Phoenix, especially for container plants. Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching.
Water: Water deeply during warm-season growth, then allow soil to dry thoroughly. Reduce watering sharply during cool weather and leafless dormancy; never leave roots in standing water.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; use a gritty cactus mix amended with pumice or perlite. Avoid heavy clay and moisture-retentive planting sites.
Mature size: Typically 6–12 feet tall and 3–6 feet wide in favorable outdoor conditions; potentially 15–20 feet tall in frost-free climates. Container plants usually remain smaller.
Bloom: Mature plants may bloom in late spring or summer; flowering is uncommon on young plants and container specimens.
Evergreen / deciduous: Seasonally deciduous; commonly drops leaves during cool or dry dormancy.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate; faster with warmth, adequate light, and appropriate summer watering.