Ephedra viridis

Green ephedra, also called green Mormon tea, is an upright shrub whose vivid green stems remain through winter after its small leaves drop. Its open, broomlike form adds fine texture and persistent color to dry, rocky plantings. ## Form and Siting Plants commonly reach about ¾–5 ft tall, with some growing wider in favorable sites. Give it sun and sharp drainage; sandy, gravelly, or rocky ground suits it, while wet soil does not. It grows slowly and can be used in xeriscape plantings. See the [U.S. Forest Service species review](https://research.fs.usda.gov/feis/species-reviews/ephvir) and [Oregon State University Landscape Plants](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/ephedra-viridis) for its form and growing conditions. ## Seasonal Interest The green stems provide structure year-round. Seed cones develop in spring and mature toward late summer. Its drought resistance makes it useful where established plants must manage with little supplemental water. ## Maintenance Allow room for its mature outline and avoid wet sites. No seasonal cutback is needed; remove damaged stems if necessary.