Ephedra nevadensis, commonly known as Mormon tea, is a perennial shrub-like gymnosperm in the Ephedra family, Ephedraceae. E. nevadensis is native to western North America where it is found growing in dry rocky and sandy soils. It is a dioecious plant with male plants growing in dry areas and female plants in more wet areas. E. nevadensis grows up to 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide at maturity with thin bluish gray green stems that photosynthesis for the plant in place of leaves. E. nevadensis blooms in late winter to early spring with small orange to yellow ball shaped flowers that cluster in rings up the stems. This species is used as a food and medicinal crop while also being an ornamental plant. Indigenous people have been known to use it to feed livestock other than horses and as a leaf/flower extract to combat syphilis. Ephedra nevadensis is more known for its use as a tea by Mormons giving the plant its common name. E. nevadensis grows best in full sun to partial shade, sitting in well-draining soils. Water the plant adequately during summer and sparingly during the winter. It is a drought-tolerant species and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Allow the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. USDA plant hardiness zones 6b to 10a.
Ephedra nevadensis requires light scarification of their hard seed coat before sowing. Use a file, sandpaper, or nail clipper to lightly weaken the seed coat, while being careful to not damage the embryo. After scarification, let the seeds soak in warm water for 24 hours. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized cactus soil mix. Next, sow the seeds ¼ to ½ inch deep and lightly cover them with potting mixture. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F. Germination typically takes 3 to 5 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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