Care of the shrub Ephedra californica or California Jointfir |
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The genus Ephedra, family Ephedraceae, comprises 60 species of shrubs native to Eurasia, Africa and America. Some species are: Ephedra californica, Ephedra altissima, Ephedra distachya, Ephedra nebrodensis, Ephedra fragilis, Ephedra americana, Ephedra chilensis. Common names: California Jointfir, California ephedra, Mormon tea, Desert tea. This species is distributed throughout California, Arizona and Baja California. Ephedra californica is an erect shrub that reaches 1.5 metres in height and has greenish branches that turn greyish with age. The tiny and sparse leaves appear at the nodes of the branches. The inflorescences are not of decorative interest. It blooms in spring. California Jointfir is used on dry and sunny slopes, in pots, as isolated specimens and in rockeries. It is also used to prepare an infusion called Mormon tea that has medicinal properties. Ephedra californica needs full sun exposure and a dry and warm climate. It resists light and occasional frosts. Mormon tea grows in any type of soil that has excellent drainage. California ephedra is a very drought-resistant plant that needs very moderate watering, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Ephedra californica does not need pruning or fertiliser. California Jointfir is a very resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess humidity. Desert tea can be propagated by division in early spring and from seed sown in spring. |
Images of the shrub Ephedra californica or California Jointfir |
 Ephedra californica  Ephedra californica  Ephedra californica |