Light: Full sun; thrives in Phoenix heat when established.
Water: Low water once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry thoroughly between waterings. Water new plantings more regularly while roots establish; reduce watering in winter.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; sandy or gravelly soil preferred. Tolerates alkaline soil but dislikes heavy, persistently wet soil.
Mature size: Typically 10–20 feet tall and 6–10 feet wide; very old specimens may grow taller.
Bloom: Mature plants typically bloom in late spring to early summer, though flowering may not occur every year. Unlike agaves, plants do not die after flowering.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow; supplemental deep watering can modestly increase growth.