shrub

Green Ephedra

Ephedra viridis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Dry

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Contains ephedrine; can be toxic in large doses.

The Story

Plant Bio

Ephedra viridis is a shrub with slender, grey-green stems and sparse, scale-like foliage, producing small, inconspicuous flowers that are generally not showy but adapted to arid environments. This species is notable for its drought tolerance and ability to survive in harsh, dry conditions, making it a valuable xeriscape plant with medicinal uses historically recognized in native cultures.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides architectural interest with its unique green stems, ideal for xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscapes.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, saving time and resources.

Supports local biodiversity by requiring little water and fertilizer, reducing runoff.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining sandy soil for planting
Tuck cuttings or seeds into soil in spring
Mist cuttings lightly every week during root formation
Transplant young plants after one year when established
Ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth
Water sparingly once established, about once a month

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly to mimic natural drought conditions 🌱
Prune lightly to maintain shape in early spring
Mulch around base to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not fertilize heavily, as it prefers poor soils
Avoid excessive pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural drought-tolerant borderVertical accent in xeriscape gardensSilvery-green hedge

Companion Plants

Agave Sedum Yucca Lavender Artemisia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Green Ephedra questions

What zones can Green Ephedra grow in?

Green Ephedra is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Green Ephedra deer resistant?

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

When does Green Ephedra bloom?

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

Does Green Ephedra need full sun?

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

Is Green Ephedra drought tolerant?

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