Unlike the desert species of Mexico, this tropical cactus is largely opportunistic due to the consistent warmth of the Caribbean. It grows most vigorously during the wetter summer months and autumn. It does not have a "deep" dormancy like high-altitude species; however, it slows down significantly in winter. Crucially, once this plant develops its cephalium (the bristly "cap"), vegetative growth of the green body stops and all energy is diverted to flowering and fruiting. Because it is a tropical species, it has zero tolerance for frost and prefers to stay relatively warm (above 15°C) even during its drier winter rest.