Genus of plants native to the desert areas of Mexico.

They are perennial, dioecious plants, often with elevated or reclining trunks. The leaves are numerous, forming extended rosettes; in the form of long linear blades, more or less spiny depending on the species.

Paniculated inflorescences, with woody stems and small flowers.

They require full sun exposure, although they can also tolerate partial shade, moderate watering, and do not tolerate waterlogging, so the soil should be allowed to dry between waterings; in winter, watering should be suspended.

They withstand temperatures down to -10 ºC and extreme drought once established.