Torrey's jointfir (Ephedra torreyana)

Torrey's jointfir

Also known as: Torrey ephedra

Torrey's jointfir (Ephedra torreyana) is a perennial shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in dry, sandy, or gravelly ground, and does not produce seeds but instead propagates itself through the spores contained in its cones.

Scientific classification

Species

Torrey's jointfir (Ephedra torreyana)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

8 mm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green, Brown

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Torrey's jointfir

Attributes of Torrey's jointfir

Growth Rate

At a slow growth rate, torrey's jointfir shows modest development in spring, its primary season of growth. The lethargic pace impacts leaf production and height increase, resulting in a less dense appearance. In other seasons, growth is practically stagnant, contributing to torrey's jointfir's overall slow growth pattern. Unique in its rate, it's a testament to deliberate, steady development.

Distribution of Torrey's jointfir

Distribution Map

Torrey's jointfir, a plant species, is inherently native to the arid and semi-arid regions of North America. It has not been widely introduced or naturalized in other major regions across the globe, thus retaining a relatively restricted distribution in its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry rocky to sandy areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Torrey's jointfir

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Torrey's jointfir excels in arid habitats, adept at conserving water with minimal moisture needs. It thrives on infrequent watering every 2-3 weeks, making it suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens, effectively utilizing limited rainfall for optimal growth.

Fertilize: Torrey's jointfir benefits from balanced nutrition or high-nitrogen fertilizers during its growing season, applied quarterly per the label. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Adjust fertilization frequency in dormancy, ensuring even soil incorporation and thorough watering for optimal absorption.

Pruning: Torrey's jointfir thrives with dormancy pruning in early to late winter. Remove dead stems to enhance growth and shape, and thin selectively for better air circulation, reducing pest risks. Clean cuts near the base maintain torrey's jointfir's vigor and ornamental appeal.

Propagation: Torrey's jointfir is a shrub from arid regions, featuring erect branches and small leaves. Propagation through healthy, semi-ripe cuttings in well-draining soil is effective. Moderate moisture helps root development, enhancing the garden's biodiversity and aesthetic appeal.

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