Also known as Mormon Tea · 376 saves
Ephedra
Ephedra, the genus most gardeners know as mormon tea. We track 11 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 11 most-saved Ephedra varieties
2 species of Ephedra
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Ephedra in Sow
Save the Ephedra you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Ephedra
Whats common across all Ephedra varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 11 most-grown of them.
The Ephedra year
- PlantMarch, April, September and October100% of varieties
Plant in well-drained, gritty soil in spring or early fall.
- PruneFebruary100% of varieties
Lightly shape or remove any dead stems in late winter.
- MulchMarch36% of varieties
Apply a layer of gravel or stone mulch to ensure sharp drainage.
- Spring CleanupFebruary36% of varieties
Remove any winter debris from around the base of the plant.
Do
- Prune lightly to maintain shape
- Water sparingly once established 💧
- Water sparingly, especially in drought conditions 🌱
- Prune to shape after flowering
- Apply well-draining soil
Avoid
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Plant in poorly drained soil ❌
- Plant in poorly-drained soil
What goes wrong with Ephedra
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Scale insects | Sticky residue and yellowing leaves | Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted growth | Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and stippling on stems | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Ephedra
Cuttings
- Select healthy stem segments and cut with clean scissors.
- Allow cuttings to callus for 2 days.
- Insert into well-draining soil.
- Water lightly and keep in full sun.
- Roots develop in about 6 weeks.
cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Allow cuttings to callus for 1 week.
- Plant in well-draining soil and water sparingly.
Ephedra questions
How many types of Ephedra are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 11 distinct Ephedra varieties. The most popular — ranked by 376 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Ephedra grow in?
Across its varieties, Ephedra covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Ephedra bloom?
Most Ephedra varieties bloom in spring, early spring, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Ephedra should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.