Ephedra viridis aka Green Ephedra

Taxonomy

Ephedra viridis, also known as green Mormon tea, green ephedra, and Indian tea, is a species of Ephedra that is indigenous to the Western United States. It can be found in varied scrub, woodland, desert, and open habitats at elevations ranging from 900 to 2,300 meters (3,000 to 7,500 feet). The plant is used to make ephedrine, a drug that has antidepressant and decongestant properties. Additionally, a tea can be made by boiling the stems, which is where the common name "green Mormon tea" comes from. While it is a rare houseplant, green ephedra can thrive with regular watering and direct sunlight, preferably within 1 foot of a window.

Common names

Green Ephedra, Mormon Tea, Green Mormon Tea

How to care for Green Ephedra

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Green Ephedra is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Green Ephedra should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Green Ephedra requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Mormon Tea is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Region of origin

Green Ephedra’s native range is South-western N. America - California to Colorado and Arizona.


More info:
Wikipedia