Common Name(s): | Clapweed, Mormon-tea, Ephreda |
Scientific Name: | Ephedra antisyphilitica |
Family: | Ephedraceae |
Longevity: | Perennial |
Season: | Warm |
Origin: | Native |
Height: | 1 m |
Flowers: | March |
Fruits: | Spring - Summer |
Description: An erect, spreading shrub with opposite or whorled branches found on dry gravelly soils in semi-arid areas. There is a narrow, pale, orange-yellow band encircling the stem just below where the leaves attach to the node. The fruit, tiny cones, are located at the nodes of the branches. The Latin name antisyphilitica refers to the plant's historic use in the treatment of syphilis. Also commonly called Mormon-tea. |