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Ephedra intermedia

A densely-branched evergreen shrub to 1m tall, with upright, jointed, grey-green shoots. In summer it bears inconspicuous yellowish-green flowers; these are followed (on female plants) by red fruits

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Green Yellow Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver Red
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Ephedraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Genus

A genus of shrubs, scrambling vines and more rarely, small trees found in arid regions of the world such as northern Africa and southern Europe, containing the therapeutic chemical Ephedrine, which can also have numerous negative effects on the human body. Plants have slender, green, scaley, rush-like stems and produce small 'cones' followed by bright red or orange berries

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Iran to Mongolia & Himalaya

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in poor to moderately fertile, sharply drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Gravel garden
  • Rock garden
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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