The resurrection plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, is known for its ability to revive from a dried state. Native to the arid Chihuahuan Desert, this spikemoss survives prolonged drought by curling its fronds inward into a tight, dormant ball. This adaptation allows it to lose up to 95% of its moisture without permanent damage, earning it common names like Rose of Jericho or Dinosaur Plant. Its fascinating nature makes it a popular choice for a low-maintenance and intriguing houseplant.
Bringing Your Resurrection Plant to Life
The revival process is straightforward. Select a shallow container, such as a dish or bowl, and place a layer of pebbles or gravel at the bottom. Position the dormant plant on top of these pebbles, then add water until it just covers them, ensuring the plant’s base is submerged. For best results, use distilled water, rainwater, or dechlorinated tap water.
Within a few hours, the plant will begin to unfurl its fronds. Full revival, transforming into a vibrant green, fern-like appearance, usually occurs within one to two days.
Ongoing Care for a Thriving Plant
Watering Cycle
Maintaining a resurrection plant’s health involves a specific watering cycle that mimics its natural desert environment. After initial rehydration, change the water daily to prevent stagnation and mold growth. The plant should not be kept continuously submerged; it requires regular dry periods to thrive. Provide a water-free rest day once a week by removing the plant from its water source. Allowing the plant to dry out completely for about one week each month promotes its long-term vitality and prevents issues like rot.
Light Requirements
Resurrection plants flourish in bright, indirect light. An ideal placement is near an eastern or western window, providing ample illumination without harsh, direct sunlight. While they tolerate some partial shade, prolonged exposure to intense sun can damage fronds. Three to six hours of filtered or indirect sunlight daily supports healthy growth and maintains the plant’s vibrant green color.
Container and Substrate
Resurrection plants do not require traditional soil. Instead, they thrive when placed in a shallow dish or bowl with a base of pebbles or gravel. These inert materials provide anchorage and slightly elevate the plant, preventing constant direct contact with a large volume of water. This setup allows for proper aeration around the plant’s base, which is important for its health.
Maintaining Health and Addressing Challenges
Understanding the plant’s natural dormancy cycle is key to its long-term well-being. During dry phases, the plant curls back into its dormant ball, conserving energy until rehydration.
Mold or rot indicates excessive moisture or insufficient air circulation. Mold appears as fuzzy white or gray growth, while rot presents as blackened, mushy fronds with a sour odor. To address this, remove the plant from water, dry it completely, and clean affected areas. Improving air circulation helps prevent recurrence. If the plant fails to unfurl or fronds remain brown after rehydration, it indicates low humidity or insufficient water. Misting or ensuring adequate water level can resolve these concerns.