Light: Full sun to light shade. In Phoenix, light afternoon shade benefits young plants; acclimate gradually to intense sun.
Water: Low water once established. Water deeply, then let soil dry completely; occasional irrigation during hot, dry weather supports growth. Keep nearly dry in winter and avoid watering before freezes.
Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. Use a coarse cactus mix in containers and raised planting areas where native soil drains poorly.
Mature size: Typically 10–12 feet tall and 3–6 feet wide, potentially larger with age under favorable conditions.
Bloom: Rarely, if ever, flowers in cultivation; grown primarily for its unusual stems.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen; green stems persist year-round, with no noticeable foliage.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, depending on warmth, drainage, and summer moisture.