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Selaginella lepidophylla (Rose of Jericho)

Flower of Stone, False Rose of Jericho, Rose of Jericho, Resurrection Plant, Resurrection Moss, Dinosaur Plant, Siempre Viva, Stone Flower

Rose of Jericho, Resurrection Plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, Desert Plants
Rose of Jericho, Dinosaur Plant, Anastatica hierochuntica
Rose of Jericho, Resurrection Plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, Desert Plants

Selaginella lepidophylla, also known as the Rose of Jericho or Resurrection Plant, is a fascinating desert-dwelling species native to the Chihuahuan Desert of the United States and Mexico. Renowned for its extraordinary ability to survive almost complete desiccation, this spikemoss is a true marvel of nature. The plant can remain dormant for years in extreme arid conditions, only to revive and resume metabolic functions when rehydrated. Its striking ability to “come back to life” has made it a symbol of resilience and adaptability.

Selaginella lepidophylla belongs to the spikemoss family (Selaginellaceae), a group of ancient vascular plants known for their remarkable survival strategies.


Native Habitat

Selaginella lepidophylla is native to the Chihuahuan Desert, an arid region spanning parts of the United States and Mexico. It thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and open, sunlit habitats. The extreme conditions of its native environment—characterized by long periods of drought and intense heat—have shaped its remarkable survival mechanisms.


Rose of Jericho Description

This small, fern-like plant features delicate green stems and leaves that form a low, spreading mat, 6-12 inches tall (15-30 cm), of small and scale-like leaves.

The plant’s most striking feature is its physiological strategy to conserve water during desiccation. In the absence of moisture, this Resurrection Plant curls inward, forming a tight, ball-like structure. This allows it to lose up to 95% of its water content, protecting its tissues from damage and enabling it to survive for years in a dormant state. During this phase, its leaves turn leathery and dark brown, blending with its arid surroundings. However, once exposed to moisture, the plant unfurls within hours, regains its green hue, and resumes photosynthesis and growth.

A critical factor in its resilience is the synthesis of trehalose, a crystallized sugar that replaces evaporating water within its tissues, preventing salt-induced damage. The plant also utilizes betaines, compounds that enhance its drought resistance. These adaptations allow the resurrection plant to recover metabolic activity even after prolonged dormancy, making it one of nature’s most remarkable examples of survival under extreme conditions.

Even if roots are partially damaged, the plant can revive and continue its life cycle. Its leaves’ unique biological structure ensures the ability to imbibe water and unfold itself, even many years after apparent death. The visual transformation from a dry, brown ball to a vibrant green plant highlights its extraordinary resilience, solidifying its status as a botanical marvel and a symbol of life’s enduring tenacity.

Rose of Jericho, Dinosaur Plant, Anastatica hierochuntica


Survival Mechanism

The most striking feature of the Rose of Jericho is its ability to survive desiccation:

  • Dormancy: When water is scarce, the plant curls into a tight ball, reducing its surface area and minimizing moisture loss.
  • Trehalose Production: This sugar acts as a protective agent, preventing cellular damage by replacing water and stabilizing cellular structures.
  • Rehydration: Upon exposure to water, the plant rapidly absorbs moisture, uncurls, and resumes photosynthesis and growth.
  • Spore-Based Reproduction: As a sporophyte, it produces spores rather than seeds, ensuring propagation even in challenging conditions.

This remarkable adaptation has earned it the nickname Resurrection Plant.


Hydro-Responsive Movements

The curling and uncurling movements of Selaginella lepidophylla are governed by:

  • Stem Structure: A gradient of lignified cells controls stiffness and spiraling.
  • Moisture Content: Outer stems curl into rings during desiccation, while inner stems spiral tightly.

These movements are not just survival tactics but also enhance its ornamental appeal when used as a novelty plant.


Hardiness

  • USDA Zones: Best suited for Zones 8-10, aligning with its native desert environment.
  • Temperature Tolerance: Withstands extreme heat and drought but may not survive prolonged freezing temperatures.

What is the Rose of Jericho Good For?

The Rose of Jericho is highly regarded for its symbolic, medicinal, and cultural applications, which have contributed to its enduring appeal across the centuries.

Symbolic and Spiritual Use

The Rose of Jericho is a powerful symbol of resilience, rebirth, and renewal. It is often used in religious rituals and ceremonies, representing life’s ability to overcome adversity. In Christian traditions, the plant is associated with resurrection, reflecting its ability to come back to life when exposed to water. Many people keep it in their homes as a symbol of prosperity, good fortune, and protection from negative energy.

Herbal and Medicinal Uses

The plant has been used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits. When steeped in water, the Rose of Jericho releases a liquid that is believed to possess cleansing, detoxifying, and healing properties. It has been used to treat colds, fevers, and digestive issues. Some cultures use its water as a tonic to improve general health or as a skin cleanser.

Rituals and Superstitions

In many cultures, the plant is believed to absorb negative energy, making it a popular item for cleansing rituals. Its water is sometimes sprinkled around homes or workplaces to purify spaces and invite positive energy. In Mexico, it is associated with facilitating childbirth, where women drink the water used to rehydrate the plant to ease labor.

Decorative Appeal

The Rose of Jericho is commonly sold as a novelty or ornamental plant. Its ability to dry out completely and revive repeatedly fascinates both adults and children. This plant is often displayed in bowls of water as a symbol of vitality and endurance.


Toxicity

Selaginella lepidophylla is non-toxic to humans and pets, making it a safe choice for homes and gardens.


Invasiveness

This plant is not considered invasive, as it does not aggressively spread in its native or cultivated habitats. Its ability to remain dormant prevents it from becoming a nuisance.

Rose of Jericho, Resurrection Plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, Desert Plants


How to Grow the Rose of Jericho or Resurrection Plant

Selaginella lepidophylla can be cultivated indoors or outdoors under specific conditions.

Light Requirement

Bright, indirect light is ideal for Resurrection Plants. An east or west-facing window provides optimal light. Avoid Intense direct sunlight, which may stress or scorch the plant, especially when grown indoors.


Soil

Resurrection Plants can grow without soil by placing them on pebbles in a shallow bowl with water. If planted in soil, use a well-draining potting mix, such as sandy soil, to mimic natural desert conditions.


Water

Hydration Process: Place the dry plant on pebbles with water just above the stones. The plant unfurls within hours and fully revives in a day or two. Use distilled, rainwater, or dechlorinated tap water for best results.

  • Do not keep the plant submerged in water permanently, as it may rot. Allow at least one water-free day per week.
  • Let the plant dry completely every couple of weeks to mimic natural dormancy cycles.

Temperature and Humidity

  • Optimal Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C).
  • Humidity: Naturally high when hydrated. If dormant indoors, occasional misting with distilled water may help.
  • Protect from drafts, vents, and extreme heat or cold. Outdoor plants should not be exposed to temperatures below 65°F (18°C).

Fertilizer

Apply diluted, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer (1/10 strength) twice yearly—once in early spring and again in midsummer. Over-fertilizing is unnecessary and may harm the plant.


Pruning

Trim dead fronds or areas that fail to rehydrate to keep the plant neat. Use sharp, sterilized scissors for best results.


Propagation

Division:

  • Cut a small section with full fronds during spring or fall.
  • Place it on gravel or loose soil and water lightly.
  • New growth typically appears within a few days.

Spores: Like ferns, the plant reproduces via spores, though propagation this way is less common for home gardeners.


Overwintering

  • Outdoor Plants: Bring indoors if temperatures drop below 65°F (18°C). Store dormant plants in a cool, dry area, such as a cardboard box, to avoid damage.
  • Indoors: Resurrection Plants kept as houseplants need no special winter care.

Disease and Pest Resistance

Pests

  • Aphids: May attack leaves, leaving sticky residue (honeydew) behind, which can attract other pests or lead to fungal issues.

Diseases

  • Powdery mildew: Develops in conditions with low air circulation or excessive humidity.
  • Leaf spot: Appears as dark spots on leaves, requiring removal of affected areas to prevent spread.

Common Problems

  • Leaves Turning Black: Typically caused by overwatering. Reduce water levels to just cover the pebbles and trim damaged fronds.
  • Leaves Turning Brown: A natural dormancy response. To revive, mist or add fresh water to rehydrate the plant.

Requirements

Hardiness 8 - 10
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Selaginellaceae
Exposure Partial Sun
Height 6" - 1' (15cm - 30cm)
Spread 3" - 6" (8cm - 15cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 8 - 10
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Selaginellaceae
Exposure Partial Sun
Height 6" - 1' (15cm - 30cm)
Spread 3" - 6" (8cm - 15cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
How Many Plants
Do I Need?

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