shrub

Blue Mormon Tea

The Story

Plant Bio

Ephedra glauca is an evergreen, dioecious shrub with numerous, slender, blue-green, jointed stems. It has scale-like leaves and produces small, cone-like flowers in spring.

This species is notable for its drought tolerance and historical use for medicinal and stimulant purposes due to its ephedrine content.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides architectural interest with its unique, jointed stems in drought-resistant landscapes.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports desert habitat biodiversity and prevents soil erosion.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Contains ephedrine; can be toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Spring – Late fall

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for optimal growth.
Mulch lightly to retain soil moisture.
Prune lightly after the first year to shape.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead stems ✂️
Apply a layer of gravel mulch for drought tolerance 🌱

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Plant in shady areas — prefers full sun ☀️
Use heavy, wet soil that retains moisture

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Xeriscape featureDesert-themed borderArchitectural accent

Companion Plants

Agave Aloe vera Yucca SedumLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Mormon Tea questions

What zones can Blue Mormon Tea grow in?

Blue Mormon Tea 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 Blue Mormon Tea deer resistant?

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

When does Blue Mormon Tea bloom?

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

Does Blue Mormon Tea need full sun?

Blue Mormon Tea does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Blue Mormon Tea drought tolerant?

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