The “Dino Plant,” formally known as the Resurrection Plant (Selaginella lepidophylla), is a unique botanical marvel. It can curl into a tight, seemingly lifeless ball during periods of drought, only to unfurl and regain its lush appearance when rehydrated. Its ancient, fern-like structure contributes to its common moniker, evoking images of prehistoric flora. This characteristic allows it to endure harsh environmental conditions.
What is a Dino Plant?
The Resurrection Plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, is a species native to the Chihuahuan Desert, spanning parts of the United States and Mexico. This desert dweller has evolved a unique survival mechanism, allowing it to withstand prolonged periods without water. During drought, the plant’s stems curl inward, forming a compact ball, which minimizes its surface area and drastically reduces moisture loss. This desiccation process can lead to the plant losing up to 95% of its water content without permanent damage.
When dormant, the plant appears brown and dry, resembling a dried tumbleweed. Upon rehydration, its fronds slowly unfurl, transforming from a tight, brown sphere into a vibrant, flattened green rosette. This dramatic change, sometimes within hours, showcases its ability to rapidly absorb water and resume metabolic functions, including photosynthesis.
Caring for Your Dino Plant
Maintaining a hydrated Resurrection Plant involves specific environmental considerations. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to the filtered light it would receive in its natural habitat. Placing it near a window with a sheer curtain or in a room with diffused light is ideal, as direct, harsh sunlight can cause it to dry out too quickly or scorch its delicate fronds.
Watering is crucial for its health, but overwatering can lead to issues. While the plant can be kept continuously hydrated, it benefits from periodic drying cycles to mimic its natural environment. It is often grown in a shallow dish with pebbles and water, ensuring the base is submerged but not constantly sitting in deep water, which can promote rot. Using distilled water, rainwater, or tap water left out overnight is beneficial, as the plant can be sensitive to chemicals like chlorine. Temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C) are suitable for its growth.
Humidity plays a role in keeping the plant vibrant and green. Although it can tolerate lower humidity, it prefers higher moisture levels, especially if the air is dry. Misting the plant every few days can help simulate the humid conditions it thrives in and maintain its lush appearance. The Resurrection Plant does not require soil to flourish, often growing in a bowl of pebbles or gravel with water. If placed in soil, a well-draining, sandy mix is recommended to prevent waterlogging.
The Resurrection Process
Bringing a dormant Resurrection Plant back to life is a simple and captivating process. To begin, place the dried, balled-up plant in a shallow dish or bowl. Ensure the base of the plant is fully submerged in water, which should ideally be at room temperature. Filtered or distilled water is preferred to avoid potential issues with tap water chemicals.
Within a few hours, the plant will start to unfurl its tightly curled fronds. This initial rehydration allows the plant to gradually transform from its brown, desiccated state to a more open form. It typically takes about three to four hours for the plant to begin visibly unfurling, and it can take up to a day or two for it to fully revive and regain its vibrant green color.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Resurrection Plants are generally low-maintenance, but certain issues can arise. If a plant does not fully unfurl or remains brown after rehydration, it might be too old, damaged, or simply dead. While dead plants can still unfurl due to cell rehydration, they will not turn green. Ensuring adequate humidity and appropriate water can help if the plant remains brown due to low moisture.
Mold or rot can occur if the plant is left in standing water for extended periods without proper air circulation. Mold often appears as fuzzy white or gray growth. To address this, allow the plant to dry out completely, gently remove any visible mold, and ensure better ventilation. Periodically allowing the plant to dry out completely for a day or a week helps prevent these problems.
Brown fronds or tips on a hydrated plant can indicate insufficient moisture, excessive direct sunlight, or overwatering leading to root issues. If the fronds are browning, a good soak followed by placement in indirect light can help. Trimming any mushy or blackened parts can also be beneficial if rot is suspected. Regular misting can prevent leaves from browning due to low humidity.
Displaying Your Dino Plant
The Resurrection Plant offers versatile and engaging display options. Its unique ability to transition between a dormant ball and a lush green rosette makes it an intriguing conversation starter. A popular method is to place the plant in a decorative shallow bowl, terrarium, or on a bed of pebbles with just enough water to cover the pebbles.
Some choose to keep their plant continuously hydrated, while others prefer to cycle it between its dry and revived states. Allowing the plant to dry out periodically, then rehydrating it, mimics its natural cycle. Clear glass containers or terrariums enhance the viewing experience, allowing the plant’s intricate structure and revival process to be fully appreciated.