Ephedra viridis Seeds | Green Ephedra
LATIN NAME: Ephedra viridis
COMMON NAME: Green Ephedra
Plant Profile
Green Ephedra (Ephedra viridis) grows as a bushy, evergreen shrub. Plant steadily develops a bushy, spreading clump, often reaching 1-2 metres. Choose full sun and poor, sandy ground for this plant. Established plants reach around 1-2 metres. It is hard to name another plant that gives this much for this little trouble.
Science & Biotechnology
Mormon tea is chemically the odd one out among ephedras: North American species such as E. viridis contain little to no ephedrine, which is why the traditional Western tea was a mild folk beverage rather than the potent stimulant of its Chinese relative. Trace pseudoephedrine and norpseudoephedrine have been reported in some analyses, so the ‘ephedrine-free’ reputation is not absolute, but pharmacological potency is far lower than in E. sinica. Tannins dominate its modest astringent profile.
Within the Ephedra group, Ephedra viridis is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Green ephedra has a real and distinguished place in the research. Modern propagation practice has made this species straightforward to raise by ordinary good methods.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Green Ephedra for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Ecologically, green ephedra is a generous plant of dry garden. Its small, cone-like clusters of tiny flowers feed many insects, and its fine, green, jointed stems give a fine, tough presence to dry garden and desert garden. Parts of ephedra contain potent compounds and are best left to professional hands, and plant is best grown as a fine, tough shrub of dry garden. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
Green ephedra is the famous Mormon tea of the American Southwest, brewed by settlers and Native peoples as a pleasant, caffeine-like-free tonic tea; unlike its Asian cousins it contains little ephedrine, which is why the tea tradition is so gentle.
Growing from Seed
Green Ephedra grows readily from seed. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide full sun. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
It grows as a bushy, evergreen shrub, so its place in the garden is easy to plan. Beginners will find it patient of imperfect technique.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Green Ephedra often pair it with these related subjects: