shrub

Mongolian Ephedra

Ephedra monosperma

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Yes

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing, dioecious, gymnosperm shrub with numerous slender, jointed, green stems and scale-like, inconspicuous leaves. It forms a dense, cushion-like mat. This species is notable for its drought tolerance and historical use in traditional medicine, particularly for its alkaloid ephedrine content, making it a plant of both horticultural and medicinal interest.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking architectural form and evergreen foliage, enhancing drought-prone gardens.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports native pollinators and adapts well to arid environments.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water sparingly until established, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for optimal growth.
Fertilize lightly with cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly.
Prune lightly after new growth in early spring.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water infrequently, allowing soil to dry between watering 🌱
Provide full sun for vigorous growth
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead stems

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Expose to excessive shade

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural drought-tolerant hedgeSculptural accent plantLow-water border feature

Companion Plants

Agave Sedum Yucca Lavender Artemisia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mongolian Ephedra questions

What zones can Mongolian Ephedra grow in?

Mongolian Ephedra is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mongolian Ephedra deer resistant?

Yes — Mongolian Ephedra is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mongolian Ephedra bloom?

Mongolian Ephedra typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mongolian Ephedra need full sun?

Mongolian Ephedra does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Mongolian Ephedra drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mongolian Ephedra handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.