Mormon Tea
Ephedra nevadensisfam. Celastraceae
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Pl. 3CED — Ephedra nevadensis
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IOverview
Overview
Mormon Tea (Ephedra nevadensis) is a subshrub or shrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and parts of Mexico's Northwest. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions, growing best in light (sandy) to medium soil types. Hardy in zones 5-9, Mormon Tea can reach a height of 1.2 meters and is known for its ornamental value and edible fruit and seed parts. Its distinctive yellow flowers and fine green foliage make it a resilient addition to gardens and landscapes, capable of surviving in challenging environments. While its parts are edible, caution should be exercised as the plant contains compounds that can be medicinal and should not be consumed without proper knowledge.
Quick answers
What is Mormon Tea?
Mormon Tea (Ephedra nevadensis) is a subshrub or shrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and parts of Mexico's Northwest. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions, growing best in light (sandy) to medium soil types.
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.
Elevated Focus
focustincture
Historically used to enhance mental clarity and alertness.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mormon Tea thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture, with a pH between 7 and 8.5. It is drought-tolerant but can also handle moist conditions. This subshrub to shrub grows up to 1.2 meters tall and is hardy in zones 5-9. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The edible parts include the fruit and seed. Ensure the plant has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Subshrub, Shrub
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
7–8.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Mormon Tea for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Mormon Tea.
- 1
What you'll need
A small piece of Mormon Tea plant or seeds, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a sandy, well-draining potting mix with a pH between 7 and 8.5 for containers or prepare garden soil that is light and dry.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly into the prepared soil, covering them lightly.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep the soil slightly moist but not wet. Place in full sun for best growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water only when the soil is dry and provide plenty of sunlight. Prune lightly if needed, especially after flowering.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and health. Harvest young shoots for culinary use in late spring.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: Tea
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Mexico Northwest, Nevada, Oregon, Utah
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
4 related
See also
4 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Celastraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Celastraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
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About this entry
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