Light: Full sun; tolerates light afternoon shade in Phoenix. Acclimate nursery-grown plants gradually to intense sun.
Water: Very low water once established. During prolonged hot, dry weather, water deeply about every 3–4 weeks only if soil has dried completely. Usually needs little or no supplemental winter water.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil preferred. Use a raised mound where native soil drains poorly.
Mature size: Typically 6–10 feet tall and 4–8 feet wide; occasionally taller.
Bloom: Spring to early summer, typically April–June; timing varies with weather and moisture.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen green stems; tiny, temporary leaves emerge on new growth and soon drop.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, depending on moisture and growing conditions.