Climate & Hardiness:
- Zones: USDA 5–11
- Cold Hardiness: Extremely cold-tolerant when well-drained; tested to -20°F (-29°C)
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun; tolerates light shade in hotter climates
- Heat Tolerance: High; excellent for arid and high-desert regions
- Humidity: Best in dry to moderate humidity; requires excellent airflow in wet climates
Planting & Care Tips:
- Soil: Prefers sandy, rocky, or fast-draining soils. Avoid clay or water-retentive ground.
- Watering: Low water needs. Water to establish; then reduce. Overwatering in cold months can be fatal.
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate. Expect ~4 feet of trunk after 8–10 years.
- Maintenance: Minimal. Remove old lower leaves as they die to expose the trunk.
- Container Use: Performs beautifully in large containers with excellent drainage.
