Ephedra fragilis
Ephedra fragilis
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Pl. 6279 — Ephedra fragilis
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IOverview
Overview
Ephedra fragilis, a member of the Ephedraceae family, is native to regions including Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Italy, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, Portugal, Sicilia, Spain, Tunisia, and Western Sahara. This plant thrives in full sun with well-draining soil that can be light (sandy) or medium, and it tolerates a range of moisture levels from dry to moist environments. Known for its edible fruit and documented medicinal uses, Ephedra fragilis has been utilized by various cultures. Its distinctive feature includes its ability to grow up to 1.8 meters in height, making it an interesting addition to botanical gardens or landscapes where hardiness zones 7-10 are suitable.
Quick answers
What is Ephedra fragilis?
Ephedra fragilis, a member of the Ephedraceae family, is native to regions including Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Italy, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, Portugal, Sicilia, Spain, Tunisia, and Western Sahara.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Focus Fusion
focustincture
Historically used for mental clarity and focus.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ephedra fragilis thrives in full sun and prefers light to medium soil that is well-draining. It can tolerate dry conditions but also grows well in moist environments. This plant is hardy in zones 7-10 and reaches a height of about 1.8 meters. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or cuttings. The edible parts are the fruit, which can be harvested for use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Ephedra fragilis for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a sunny spot, as it thrives in full sun and dry to moist soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plants, well-draining soil, and a container if starting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy or medium soil. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from a container into the garden once it has grown some roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid root rot but ensure the soil is not bone dry.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil feels very dry. Prune lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Skip is primarily grown for its ornamental value, so focus on light pruning to maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Ephedra fragilis is edible and can be consumed raw or dried. It is commonly found in regions such as Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Italy, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, Portugal, Sicilia, Spain, Tunisia, and Western Sahara.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 12 native
Europe3 regions
native (3)ItalyPortugalSpain
Africa5 regions
native (5)AlgeriaLibyaMoroccoTunisiaWestern Sahara
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 62794a3c-c98c-42b4-aced-00895de14ff7
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