The resurrection plant (Selaginella lepidophylla), also known as the Rose of Jericho, Desert Rose, or Dinosaur Plant, is a spikemoss recognized for its ability to return to life from extreme dormancy. It can survive almost complete desiccation, curling into a tight, seemingly lifeless ball. When deprived of water, it can lose up to 95% of its moisture and remain dormant for years.
The Revival Process
Reviving a dormant resurrection plant is a straightforward process. Place the dried, curled plant in a shallow dish or bowl wide enough for it to expand. The plant absorbs water through its fronds and does not require soil.
Carefully add water to the dish, covering the plant’s base. Distilled, rainwater, or filtered water are suitable choices to minimize mineral buildup. Avoid fully submerging the plant, as this can lead to rot. The plant will slowly unfurl from a brown, brittle ball to a flat, green mat. This revival typically takes a few hours, though some plants may take up to a day or two to fully open.
Ongoing Care for an Active Plant
An active resurrection plant thrives in indirect light when hydrated and open. Place it near a window with filtered sunlight or in a brightly lit room without direct sun exposure. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the fronds or dry the plant too quickly.
Watering requires a delicate balance. Do not leave the plant in standing water for extended periods. Keep a shallow amount of water in the dish, ensuring roots are consistently moist but not saturated. Misting the fronds occasionally helps maintain humidity.
Good air circulation is important to prevent mold or mildew, especially in humid environments. The plant does not require potting mix; it can remain in a shallow container with water or on a bed of pebbles.
Managing Dormancy and Preventing Issues
Regular dormancy periods are essential for the resurrection plant’s long-term health. Allowing the plant to dry out and return to its dormant, balled state prevents rot, mold, or fungal growth. This cyclical drying mimics its natural desert habitat, which experiences alternating wet and dry seasons. Without these dry spells, the plant can become oversaturated and decline.
To manage dormancy, keep the plant hydrated for one to two weeks. Then, remove the water and let it dry completely for several days or weeks. The plant will gradually curl back into its brown, ball-like form. This drying phase allows the plant to rest and regenerate. Consistent adherence to this wet-dry cycle is key to the resurrection plant’s longevity and its ability to revive repeatedly.