Light: Full sun to light shade; light afternoon shade can help prevent scorching in Phoenix’s intense summer heat.
Water: Very low water once established. Water deeply but infrequently during prolonged hot, dry weather, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep mostly dry in winter.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil preferred. Use raised planting areas or mounds where native soil drains poorly.
Mature size: Typically 2–3 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide; older clumps may spread wider.
Bloom: Spring, typically March–May in the Phoenix area; individual flowers are short-lived.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen cactus; persistent pads are modified stems rather than leaves.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, depending on moisture and growing conditions.