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Phylum Gnetophyta -- gnetophytes Gnetophyta comprise about three families, one of which occurs in central Texas. Ephedra (Mormon tea) is common in west Texas, but also occurs on limestone in the hill country. This genus (though not the Texas species) is a source of ephedrine. Gnetophyta is heterosporous and, in addition, produce highly specialized, complex reproductive and dispersal structures called seeds. Gnetophyta seeds are said to be "naked" since they lack a particular sort of protective covering characteristic of Anthophyta. Gnetophyta are therefore said to be "gymnospermous." Genus Ephedra

Ephedra

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