Ephedra californica, commonly known as California jointfir or desert tea, is a perennial shrub native to the arid deserts and scrublands of central and southern California, Baja California, and western Arizona. It thrives in a variety of habitats including chaparral, arid grasslands, and creosote bush scrub, typically at elevations ranging from 150 to 3,400 feet. Ephedra californica is well-adapted to its native desert environment, often found in sandy or rocky soils with good drainage.

California jointfir is a slow-growing shrub that can reach up to 6 feet in height. It has a distinctive appearance with slender, greenish twigs that mature to a yellowish-gray color. The plant is dioecious, with male and female reproductive structures on separate plants. Male plants bear small, yellowish pollen cones, while female plants produce slightly larger seed cones, each about a centimeter long. The tiny, scale-like leaves are ephemeral and not significant for photosynthesis, which is carried out by the green stems. In cultivation, California jointfir is valued for its unique form and texture, adding visual interest to xeriscapes and rock gardens. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance once established, making it suitable for water-wise gardening. It prefers full sun and is tolerant of a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While not commonly used in mainstream landscaping, it can serve as an intriguing specimen plant or as part of a native plant garden. Historically, indigenous peoples have used Ephedra californica for medicinal purposes, particularly as a stimulant due to its ephedrine content. However, gardeners should be cautious as the plant can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.CC BY-SA 4.0