Light: Full sun to partial shade; morning sun with protection from intense western afternoon sun is best in Phoenix. Avoid reflected heat from walls and pavement.
Water: Moderate to high water needs in Phoenix. Irrigate deeply across the root zone, allowing the upper few inches of soil to dry between waterings. Increase irrigation during extreme heat and fruit development; reduce substantially during winter dormancy.
Soil: Deep, well-drained loam preferred; tolerates heavier soils if drainage is adequate. Phoenix’s alkaline, saline soils may cause nutrient deficiencies. Apply organic mulch, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
Mature size: Typically 15–25 feet tall and 15–20 feet wide; can be maintained smaller with careful pruning.
Bloom: Small flowers appear in spring on new growth; fruit typically ripens in fall.
Evergreen / deciduous: Deciduous.
Growth rate: Moderate; growth may slow during establishment or extreme summer heat.