How To Order: Quantity options listed represent bulk weights. Examples: 1 = 1 lbs, 25 = 25 bs.
Common Name: Green Ephedra / Mormon Tea
Scientific Name: Ephedra viridis
Native / Introduced: Native
Main Uses:
~Wildlife habitat restoration
~Revegetation of disturbed sites
~Native landscaping
Height: 2 - 4 1/2 feet
Colors: Yellow green leaves and flowers with brown, woody branches
Flowering Season: Spring - early summer
Elevation: 3,000 to 7,500 feet
Soil Types: Most dry, well-drained soils
Tolerances:
~Calcareous and weakly saline soil
~Winter hardy
~Drought
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Minimum Precipitation: 7-10 inches
Lifecycle: Perennial
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 25,000
Optimal Planting Season: Fall
Planting Depth: 1/2 inch deep
Stratification Requirements: Cold stratification required in not planting in the fall
Category: Shrubs
Description:
Description: Green Ephedra, commonly referred to as Mormon Tea, is an evergreen shrub primarily found in the same states as Nevada Ephedra, with an additional presence in southwest Wyoming. This hardy shrub thrives in a variety of soil conditions, typically growing on shallow to medium-depth soils, which are often of coarse to medium textures. You can commonly spot it along washes, rocky slopes, and ridges, and it exhibits notable tolerance for calcareous and weakly saline soils.
Not only does Green Ephedra contribute to the ecosystem by providing forage for browsing animals, particularly during the winter months, but it also offers valuable habitat for various wildlife species. This plant plays a significant role in range and wildlife habitat enhancement efforts, especially in winter ranges. Additionally, it finds application in the revegetation of disturbed sites and is a popular choice for native landscaping, making it a versatile and ecologically valuable shrub across its range.
Resources:
NRCS Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=EPVI
NRCS Planting Guide: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_epvi.pdf
Photo Credit: Andrey Zharkikh
