Light: Full sun; young trees benefit from afternoon shade during Phoenix summers. Protect exposed bark from intense sun.
Water: Deep, regular irrigation; not a low-water desert tree. Water established trees throughout the root zone to about 2–3 feet deep, allowing the upper few inches of soil to dry between irrigations. Water more frequently during extreme heat and less in winter; keep the trunk base dry.
Soil: Well-drained soil; sandy loam preferred. Tolerates moderately alkaline soil, but poor drainage and salt buildup cause problems. Avoid planting too deeply or in low spots.
Mature size: Typically 15–25 feet tall and 15–20 feet wide; size varies with rootstock, growing conditions, and pruning.
Bloom: Primarily late winter through spring in Phoenix; fruit generally ripens in winter and can remain on the tree for months.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate.