Ephedra pachyclada
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a well-drained loamy soil and a sunny position. Dioecious, male and female plants must be grown in fruit and seed are required.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in the autumn in a greenhouse. It can also be sown in spring in a greenhouse in a sandy compost[K]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and grow them on for at least their first winter in a greenhouse. Plant out in the spring or early summer after the last expected frosts and give some protection in their first winter[K]. Division in spring or autumn. Layering.
Edible uses
Fruit - raw or cooked.
Medicinal uses
The stems of most members of this genus contain the alkaloid ephedrine and are valuable in the treatment of asthma and many other complaints of the respiratory system[K]. The whole plant can be used at much lower concentrations than the isolated constituents - unlike using the isolated ephedrine, using the whole plant rarely gives rise to side-effects.
Habitat
Found at elevations above 1800 metres in the Himalayas.
Native range
E. Asia - Himalayas.