Photo of Ephedra equisetina foliage by Plant Select®

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Ephedra equisetina

Also Known As

  • Bluestem Joint Fir

Plant type

shrub

size

  • H: 4'-6'
  • W: 3'-8'

planting zones

  • 4b-9b

More Options

Ephedra equisetina plant details

Ephedra equisetina is a broadleaf deciduous shrub with blue and green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Grows well with mostly sun - mostly shade and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Ephedra equisetina

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: ephedraceae
Foliage: deciduous blue and green
Mature size: 3 FT - 8 FT - wide, 4 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: winter interest, xeric, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Ephedra equisetina

USDA Zones: 4b - 9b
Sun exposure: mostly sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer, heat and verticillium wilt

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Finely textured blue-green stems with a conspicuous froth of yellow blooms often followed by red berries. Related to conifers. Bluestem joint fir is extremely heat and drought tolerant. Dense branching provides excellent winter interest. Shrub. Xeriscape. Garden loam, clay or sandy soil. USDA zones 4b-9 (up to 7,000').

Gardening facts about Ephedra equisetina plant

How to Grow Ephedra equisetina

  • Sun Exposure

    • mostly sun - mostly shade
  • Water Needs

    • regular - drought tolerant
  • Water Needs

    • dry in summer
  • Soil Needs

    • adaptable
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant
    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
    • blue
  • Flower Color

    • yellow
  • Wildlife

    • deer resistant
  • Fruit

    • red
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous
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