Ephedra spp. (Mormon Tea)

Photographs

My photos:

These plants were growing in Joshua Tree, in March.

More photos:

click photo to enlarge

Plant Information

Ephedraceae

In the garden:

A spreading to erect, broomlike shrub, which may reach 4 feet in height. Young stems are a pale green and smooth; older stems become yellow or gray. Leaves are tiny and deciduous. This plant does not produce flowers; it produces tiny cones (somewhat like a pine tree). There are seven different species of Ephedra in California.

In the wild:

It is common on dry slopes and hills, mostly below 4500 feet.

Ethnobotany:

A decoction of the leaves and twigs was used by local natives for medicinal purposes "to thin the blood and flush the kidneys." Long term use was not recommended.

Field Trips
Anza Borrego Caspers Holy Jim Canyon Idyllwild
Joshua Tree Mt Palomar Rancho Santa Ana Torrey Pines

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