Botanical Name: Ephedra equisetina
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Common Name: Bluestem Jointfir  
Plant photo of: Ephedra equisetina
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Water Saving Tip:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.

Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Conifer, Shrub

 

Height Range

3-6'

 

Flower Color

Yellow

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Blue Green

 

Bark Color

Green, Grey

 

Fruit Color

Red

 

Fruit Season

Summer, Fall

Sun

Full, Half

 

Water

Very Low, Low

 

Growth Rate

Slow

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

Allergenic

Design Styles

Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch

 

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring

 

Location Uses

Shrub Border, Foundation, Walls / Fences, With Rocks

 

Special Uses

Filler, Hedge, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Information by: Stephanie Duer
Photographer:

  • Description

  • Notes

A member of the conifer clan, Ephedra equisetina is commonly called bluestem jointfir due to its finely textured, evergreen, blue stems. In spring, it features a conspicuous froth of yellow blooms that are often followed by red berries. Leaves are small and inconspicuous. It is perfect for naturalized areas since it reliably spreads. A moderate grower to 3 to 6 feet tall and wide.
Prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in garden loam, clay, or sandy soil. It can take moderately moist to xeric conditions and is extremely heat and drought tolerant, which makes it a good choice for groupings in difficult areas. May be susceptible to rust if over-irrigated. Hardy to USDA Zone 4.