How to grow Chinese Ephedra

Ephedra sinica

Growing Chinese Ephedra from seed

Sow in a sandy potting soil at 65-70F; expect germination rates from 50-80% after about 11 days. Reduce humidity on germination as seedlings are prone to damping off.

Transplanting Chinese Ephedra

Seedlings do not have a strong root system and are prone to transplant shock; it is recommended to grow seedlings to a minimum of 4" tall before transplanting them.

Likes a sandy soil and dry conditions, but very hardy and drought-tolerant once established. It is known to have been successfully grown outdoors over multiple seasons in the British Isles.

Propagate by root division in Autumn or Spring.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Chinese Ephedra is a very hardy plant.

Harvesting Chinese Ephedra

Harvesting can be done throughout the year.

Seed Saving Chinese Ephedra

Ephedra is a dioecious species, so both male and female plants are needed to obtain seeds. Plants will not usually flower/fruit until they are two to three years old.

How long does Chinese Ephedra take to grow?

These estimates for how long Chinese Ephedra takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

Days to Germination How long does it take Chinese Ephedra to germinate?
11 days

Average 11 days | Min days | Max days (0)

Days to Transplant How long until I can plant out Chinese Ephedra?
+ days

Average days | Min days | Max days (0)

Days to Maturity How long until Chinese Ephedra is ready for harvest / bloom?
+ 1460 days

Average 1460 days | Min days | Max days (0)

Total Growing Days How long does it take to grow Chinese Ephedra?
= days

Other names for Chinese Ephedra

Chinese ephedra, Ma Huang, Jointfir, Joint-pine

Ephedra sinica Stapf

Footnotes


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Poor Man's Ginseng