Family: Ephedraceae
Author: S.Watson
Bibliography: Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 14: 300 (1879)
Year: 1879
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ephedra
Vegetable: False
Observations: California to Mexico (N. & SC. Baja California)
Description
California Mormon Tea, scientifically known as Ephedra californica, is an intriguing species within the Ephedraceae family. Documented in 1879 by the renowned botanist Sereno Watson in the Proceedings of the American Academy of Arts (Vol. 14, p. 300), this plant has fascinated botanists and herbalists alike for over a century.
Originating in the arid regions of California and extending southward into both Northern and Southern Baja California in Mexico, California Mormon Tea thrives in environments where many other plants struggle. Its ability to grow in sandy, well-drained soils and its resilience to drought conditions make it an exemplar of adaptation in its native range.
The plant itself is characterized by its jointed, green stems which resemble the joints of bamboo. Unlike many other plant species, Ephedra californica lacks prominent leaves; instead, it has small, scale-like leaves that are barely noticeable. This structural adaptation reduces water loss and enables it to survive in its native harsh, dry climates.
Ephedra species, including Ephedra californica, have a rich history of use by indigenous peoples and early settlers in their native habitats. Known for its stimulating properties, the plant has been used traditionally to brew a tea, which was consumed for its energizing effects. This usage led to the common name “Mormon Tea,” reflecting its significance within the cultural practices of Mormon settlers who utilized the plant as a caffeine-free stimulant.
In addition to its historical uses, California Mormon Tea continues to be a subject of interest in modern herbal medicine. The active compounds, primarily ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, have been extracted for use in decongestants and for their stimulant effects. However, due to potential side effects and the potency of its active ingredients, its use is regulated in many places.
Ecologically, Ephedra californica plays an important role in its native habitat. It provides food and habitat for various species of wildlife, including insects and small mammals. Its ability to survive and thrive in poor soil conditions also makes it an important species for stabilizing soils and preventing erosion in its native ecosystem.
California Mormon Tea is a testament to the remarkable adaptations of desert flora and the longstanding interaction between humans and the natural world. Its continued study and conservation are integral to understanding both ecological dynamics and cultural history within its native range.
Common Names
Eng: california mormon tea, california ephedra, california joint-fir, california jointfir, desert-tea, desert tea, mexican tea, mormon tea
Spa: cañatilla, cañatillo
En: California Mormon tea, California ephedra, California joint-fir, California jointfir, Desert-tea, Desert Tea, Mexican Tea, Mormon Tea
Es: Cañatilla, Cañatillo
Synonyms
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Feb 24, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2653361)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:383367-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ephedra californica S.Watson)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Shrub