Taxonomy

Division:

Gnetophyta | - Mormon tea and other gnetophytes

Family:

Ephedraceae

Genus:

Ephedra

Species:

Ephedra aspera

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Subshrub

Height:

3-4 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may

Bloom Colors:

green, yellow, yellow-green

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, Utah

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Common in arid and semi-arid regions