Ephedra alata, commonly known as Winged Ephedra or Joint Pine, is a shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions, including semi-deserts, deserts, rocky slopes, and hillsides of Northern Africa and the Middle East. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching heights and widths of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters). This plant is characterized by its green, segmented stems and small, scale-like leaves that are often unnoticed. It does not produce showy flowers; instead, it has inconspicuous cones. Winged Ephedra is valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional medicine, as it contains ephedrine, a compound used to treat various ailments.

Winged Ephedra is well-suited for xeriscaping and rock gardens due to its low water requirements and preference for full sun. It thrives in sandy or loamy soils with fast drainage. Its unique form and tolerance to drought make it an excellent choice for gardens in arid climates or where water conservation is a priority. Gardeners should note that while it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, due to its content of ephedrine, it should be planted with caution as it can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.CC BY-SA 4.0