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high-climbing jointfir

Scientific Name: Ephedra altissima

Family: Ephedraceae

Category: Gymnosperm

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Ephedra altissima - High-Climbing Jointfir

Ephedra altissima, commonly known as High-Climbing Jointfir, is a perennial evergreen shrub or scrambling climber belonging to the Ephedraceae family.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant can grow as a climbing shrub or vine.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant can grow as a climbing shrub or vine.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ephedra altissima Desf.
  • Common Name: High-Climbing Jointfir
  • Family: Ephedraceae (Ephedra Family)
  • Genus: Ephedra L. – Mormon tea, ephedra, jointfir
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms:
    • Ephedra antisyphilitica Berl.
    • Ephedra X arenicola Cutler – sandy jointfir, sand Mormon tea
    • Ephedra aspera

Distribution and Habitat

  • Present in Africa.
  • Reported in S.&*! HI, Puerto Rico (PR), Virgin Islands (VI), Navassa Island (NAV), Canada (CAN), Greenland (GL), Saint Pierre and Michelon.
  • Occurs at elevations below 2000 m, with a few species reaching as high as 2300 m.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen shrub or scrambling climber.
  • Perennial duration.
  • Grows to be up to 4 feet tall.
  • Stems have finely ridged joints.

Quirky Facts

  • Some Ephedra species are referred to as "Mormon Tea".

Cultivation

  • Hardiness zones: 7-10.
  • Prefers hot, overhead sun.
  • Requires dry to constantly moist soil.

Additional Information

  • Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Ephedra altissima.