Light: Full sun to light shade; afternoon shade is beneficial in Phoenix’s intense summer heat. Acclimate gradually to direct sun.
Water: Low water once established; water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering during winter and skip irrigation after substantial monsoon rain.
Soil: Very well-drained sandy or gravelly soil; tolerates alkaline soil. Use a gritty cactus mix in containers and avoid poorly drained planting pockets.
Mature size: Typically 1–3 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide; old clumps can spread farther.
Bloom: Small flowers typically appear in late spring to summer on established plants.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent with persistent green stems; leaves are tiny and short-lived.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, depending on warmth and available moisture.