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Mormon Tea
Ephedra viridis
Mormon Tea
Currently unavailable
Narrow, leafless, upward reaching branches bear tiny, yellow, flower-like cones in spring. Since the plant is dioecious, male and female plants will have different cones. Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes The evergreen stems provide important food for wildlife. Native to Utah and drought-tolerant when established. Spreads through rhizomes and seeds, but only when conditions are favorable.
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Plant facts
Good to know
- Waterwise — suited to low-water landscapes once established.
- Suitable for Utah Lake secondary water systems.
- Tolerates rock mulch.
- Part of our native plants collection, a specialty of ours.
- Adds winter interest.
- Low maintenance.
Quick answers
How big does Mormon Tea get?
About 3' tall and 6' wide at maturity.
How much sun does Mormon Tea need?
Full Sun (6+ hours).
How much water does Mormon Tea need?
Low water use — it is one of our waterwise plants.
Will Mormon Tea grow in Utah and the Intermountain West?
It is rated hardy to USDA zone 4, so it suits sites in zone 4 or warmer, which covers most of the region. The Salt Lake Valley floor is mostly zone 7; benches, mountain valleys and high plains in Utah, Idaho, Montana, Colorado and Wyoming are colder, often zones 3–6, so check the zone for your site.
Where can I buy Mormon Tea in Utah?
Progressive Plants in Copperton, Utah carries it, but it is not available right now. You can join the waitlist to hear when it's back.
Can landscape contractors buy Mormon Tea wholesale?
Yes. Landscape contractors and architects with a Progressive Plants wholesale account get trade pricing, bulk ordering and shipping across Utah, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Wyoming and Nevada on our own trucks or by freight ($1,500 minimum outside our local delivery area). Apply at progressiveplants.com/wholesaleapp.html or call 801-565-7333.
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