The Rose of Jericho is a remarkable “resurrection plant,” known for its extraordinary ability to return from a dormant, seemingly lifeless state. This article guides you through bringing your Rose of Jericho to life and providing the care it needs to thrive.
Understanding Your Rose of Jericho
The plant most commonly sold as the Rose of Jericho is Selaginella lepidophylla, a type of desert fern or spikemoss, not a true rose. It is native to the arid Chihuahuan Desert regions of the United States and Mexico. This plant evolved a unique survival mechanism for drought.
When deprived of water, its stems curl inward, forming a tight, seemingly dead ball to protect its delicate inner structures. This allows it to lose up to 95% of its water content and remain dormant for years. It is distinct from the “true” Rose of Jericho, Anastatica hierochuntica, native to the Middle East, which behaves differently in revival.
Bringing Your Plant to Life
Begin by selecting a shallow, non-porous dish, such as a ceramic or glass plate, where the plant can rest without being fully submerged. Fill the dish with room-temperature water, ensuring it is filtered, distilled, or tap water that has sat out overnight. This allows chlorine and other chemicals to dissipate, which can be harmful to the plant. Place the dry, curled plant into the water, ensuring its base is submerged.
The plant typically begins to unfurl and show signs of greening within a few hours. For a complete transformation, where the plant fully opens and displays its vibrant green fronds, it may take 24 to 48 hours, sometimes a few days. You will observe the brown, brittle ball slowly expand, revealing its fern-like foliage.
Daily Care and Dormancy Cycles
Once your Rose of Jericho has unfurled and turned green, it requires specific care. Change the water in its dish every one to two days to prevent it from becoming stagnant, which can lead to mold or rot. It is important not to keep the plant continuously submerged for extended periods, as this is the primary cause of decline. The plant thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near an east-facing window, but direct, intense sunlight should be avoided to prevent scorching its fronds. It does not require soil or fertilizer; it absorbs moisture and nutrients directly from the water.
Incorporating planned dormancy periods is important for the Rose of Jericho’s long-term vitality. After keeping the plant active and hydrated for five to seven days, or up to two weeks, remove it from the water. Allow it to completely dry out and curl back into its dormant ball for at least one day per week, and a full week once a month. This rest period mimics its natural desert cycles, preventing issues like mold and ensuring the plant remains robust for repeated revivals.
Common Issues and Solutions
While the Rose of Jericho is relatively easy to care for, you might encounter a few common issues. If your plant fails to open, it could be due to extreme dryness, old age, or simply being a non-viable specimen. If it opens partially but remains brown, it might be dead, as cells can rehydrate without turning green.
Mold, sliminess, or an unpleasant odor are clear indicators of stagnant water or excessive submersion. To address this, immediately remove the plant from the water, rinse it thoroughly, and allow it to dry out completely. Ensure you change the water frequently during active periods and strictly adhere to the dormancy cycles. If the plant turns brown or crispy while actively hydrated, it might be a sign of insufficient water during its active phase, or it may be signaling a need for its scheduled rest period.