SafePlants

Ephedra: Joint-Pine, Mormon Tea, and More

Ephedra is a fascinating genus of gymnosperm shrubs, recognized for its unique morphology and historical uses. This plant is the sole genus within its family, Ephedraceae, making it a distinct group within the plant kingdom.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Ephedra species produce reddish fleshy seeds.
• The plant is a shrub.

Common Names and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Ephedra
• Common Names: Joint-pine, Jointfir, Mormon-tea, Brigham tea, Ma huang (Chinese)
• Family: Ephedraceae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Genus
• Synonyms: The text lists "ephedra" and "jointfir" as synonyms for the common name "Mormon tea." Various Ephedra species also have synonyms.

Distribution and Habitat

Ephedra species are often found in dry, rocky slopes and hills. Certain species, like Ephedra nevadensis, are native to specific regions like Nevada and southern California. The interactive map at the USDA Plants database can show where the herb grows in the US.

Morphological Characteristics

• Ephedra are shrubs, often with jointed stems.
• Some species, like Ephedra equisetina (Bluestem Joint Fir), have finely textured blue stems.
• Many species appear nearly leafless, possessing reduced, scalelike leaves.
• Ephedra nevadensis (Nevada Jointfir) is described as a mid-sized, upright shrub with many dull, gray-green stems.

Quirky Facts

• Bluestem Joint Fir (Ephedra equisetina) is known for its finely textured blue stems and is sometimes used as a screen or backdrop in landscaping due to its dense growth.

Specific Species Examples

• Ephedra equisetina: Commonly called Bluestem Joint Fir.
• Ephedra nevadensis: Known as Nevada Jointfir, Gray Ephedra, Morning Tea, and Nevada Morning Tea.
• Ephedra torreyana: Referred to as Torrey Joint-fir or Torrey's Jointfir.
• Ephedra trifurca: Known as Longleaf Jointfir, Longleaf Ephedra, or Mexican-tea.
• Ephedra aspera: Also known as Rough Jointfir.
• Ephedra viridis: Called Green Ephedra, Joint-fir, or Mormon Tea.
• Ephedra californica: California Jointfir or California Ephedra.
• Ephedra sinica: Its herbaceous stem is known as Ma Huang.

Further Resources

• Wikimedia Commons: Category:Ephedra on Wikimedia Commons
• USDA Plants Database: jointfir at USDA Plants database (link placeholder - needs to be updated with the actual URL)
• Encyclopedia of Life: Information on Ephedra nevadensis.
• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.