Green Mormon Tea Seeds (Ephedra viridis) – Evergreen desert shrub valued for herbal tea and resilience. Ideal for dry, sunny environments.

Minimum: 25+ Seeds

Green Mormon Tea (Ephedra viridis) is a hardy evergreen shrub native to the arid regions of North America. This striking desert plant is recognized for its slender, jointed green stems and subtle evergreen foliage, making it a low-maintenance, visually appealing addition to xeriscapes, rock gardens, and native plant landscapes.

Its natural adaptability to dry, sunny, and rocky conditions makes it ideal for gardeners seeking a sustainable, low-water plant that thrives where many others fail. Green Mormon Tea is perfect for creating a desert-inspired aesthetic, adding year-round greenery and texture to outdoor spaces.

🌿 Why Choose Green Mormon Tea?

✔ Exceptional Drought Tolerance

Adapted to harsh desert environments, Green Mormon Tea thrives in poor, sandy, or rocky soils with minimal water once established. It is a reliable choice for xeriscaping and low-water gardens, providing greenery where other plants struggle.

✔ Low-Maintenance & Long-Lived

Once established, this hardy shrub requires little care. It tolerates extreme heat, wind, and temperature fluctuations, making it a durable, long-lasting addition to landscapes.

✔ Native Plant & Wildlife Benefits

As a native desert species, Green Mormon Tea supports local ecosystems, offering shelter and habitat for birds, insects, and pollinators. Its evergreen form also contributes to year-round structure and visual interest.

✔ Distinctive Desert Aesthetic

The plant’s jointed, bright green stems create a sculptural, architectural look in gardens, rockeries, and container landscapes. Its unique texture and form make it an eye-catching focal point for both naturalistic and ornamental designs.

🌱 Growing Green Mormon Tea from Seeds

Seed Preparation & Germination

Green Mormon Tea seeds are adapted to arid climates and benefit from pre-sowing treatment:

1. Soak seeds in warm water for 24–48 hours to soften the hard coat.

2. Use a well-draining, sandy or rocky seed-starting medium.

3. Sow seeds on the surface or lightly cover with a thin layer of soil.

4. Maintain consistent light moisture, avoiding overwatering.

5. Germination can take several weeks to months, reflecting its slow desert-adapted growth.

Transplanting & Care

• Transplant seedlings when strong and established.

• Sunlight: Full sun for best growth and stem coloration.

• Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or rocky soils are preferred.

• Watering: Low once established; occasional watering during extreme drought.

• Zones: Thrives in USDA Zones 6–10, or comparable arid and semi-arid regions.

🌿 Mature Plant Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Ephedra viridis

• Common Names: Green Mormon Tea, Green Ephedra

• Plant Type: Evergreen desert shrub

• Height: 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)

• Spread: 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)

• Foliage: Slender, jointed stems with bright green tones

• Flowers: Small and inconspicuous, primarily wind-pollinated

• Sunlight: Full sun

• Soil: Poor, sandy, or rocky; well-draining essential

• Water Needs: Minimal once established

• Wildlife Value: Provides shelter and habitat for desert birds and pollinators

🌿 Uses & Landscape Applications

• Xeriscaping & Low-Water Gardens: Perfect for sustainable landscaping in dry regions.

• Rock Gardens & Desert-Themed Landscapes: Adds sculptural interest and texture.

• Native Plant Gardens: Supports biodiversity and local desert ecosystems.

• Erosion Control: Roots help stabilize sandy or rocky soils.

• Ornamental Focal Point: Eye-catching structure for containers, beds, and mixed desert plantings.

⚠️ Compliance & Safety Notes

• Seeds are intended for ornamental and landscape cultivation only.

• Not for human consumption.

• Some Ephedra species contain alkaloids; these seeds are for compliant horticultural cultivation only.

• Do not imply any medicinal, wellness, or therapeutic uses unless licensed and legally permitted.

• Cultivate responsibly and follow local regulations regarding Ephedra species.

Green Mormon Tea Seeds offer gardeners, landscapers, and native plant enthusiasts the chance to grow a resilient, architectural desert shrub that combines striking form, low-maintenance care, and ecological value. Ideal for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and native landscapes, this hardy evergreen enhances arid gardens while providing shelter for wildlife and pollinators, creating a sustainable, low-water, and visually captivating outdoor space.