Light: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade helps prevent scorching in Phoenix, especially for container plants. Acclimate gradually to direct sun.
Water: Low water once established; water deeply, then let soil dry thoroughly. Container plants need more frequent checks during extreme heat. Reduce watering sharply in winter.
Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil; use a gritty cactus/succulent mix in containers with drainage holes.
Mature size: Typically 6–15 feet tall and 3–8 feet wide in protected Phoenix landscapes; potentially larger in frost-free climates. Smaller in containers.
Bloom: Small, inconspicuous flowers may appear seasonally, often in spring or summer; flowering is unreliable in containers.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent stems; tiny leaves drop quickly, especially during drought.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast during warm weather with suitable water and frost protection.