Ephedra distachya
Ephèdre à chatons opposés
Joint Fir
Additional information
| Plant family | |
|---|---|
| Area | Sainte Baume |
| Flower colour | green |
| Flower size | 5-6 mm |
| Flowering months | April, May |
| Leaf type | Scales |
| Height | to 1 m |
Description
It is thought that Ephedra distachya species date back to between 8-32 million years ago with jointed stems, firm, smooth and green. Photosynthesis takes place in the stems. There are male and female plants.
Rocky places, sandy shores, and stream banks.
Flowers
The male flower is a clustered structure, the female flower is elongated and pointed.
Leaves
Scales leaves resemble green scales e.g. Cupressus, Juniperus. Reduced, scale-like leaves.
Fruits Seeds
Drupe: the red outer fleshy part surrounds a pit with a seed inside.
Medical
Stems: contain an alkaloid called ‘ephedrine’ which is used to treat catarrh and asthma.
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