Longleaf Jointfir
(Ephedra trifurca)
Longleaf Jointfir (Ephedra trifurca)
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CK Kelly
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
CK Kelly
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: CK Kelly | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: CK Kelly | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2016-12-03T20:39:57Z |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ephedra trifurca, commonly known as Longleaf Jointfir, is an evergreen shrub native to arid desert regions and scrublands in the Southwestern USA and Northern Mexico. It typically grows to about 2 meters (6.6 ft) in height and has a sprawling habit. The plant is characterized by its erect, sharp-pointed twigs, which are light green when young and mature to a yellowish or greenish-gray hue. Longleaf Jointfir does not produce conspicuous flowers; instead, it has small, inconspicuous cones. This shrub is well-adapted to its native harsh environments, thriving on well-drained sandy or gravelly soils.
Longleaf Jointfir is valued for its drought tolerance and unique structural form, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and desert gardens. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can serve as an interesting architectural element in the landscape. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun and is best suited to soils with fast drainage. It is rarely affected by pests or diseases, but it is essential to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Longleaf Jointfir is valued for its drought tolerance and unique structural form, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and desert gardens. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can serve as an interesting architectural element in the landscape. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun and is best suited to soils with fast drainage. It is rarely affected by pests or diseases, but it is essential to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 5-6 feet
- Width: 5-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to arid desert regions and scrublands
Other Names
Common Names: Longleaf Mormon Tea , Longleaf Ephedra , Longleaf Joint-Fir , Mexican-Tea
Scientific Names: Ephedra trifurca , Ephedra intermixta , Ephedra trifaria
GBIF Accepted Name: Ephedra trifurca Torr. ex S.Watson