Rose of Jericho
anastatica hierochuntica
Also known as: ["Resurrection Plant","Dead Rose"]
Overview
A unique resurrection plant that curls into a ball when dry and unfurls when moistened, native to arid regions of North Africa and the Middle East.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Anastatica |
| Botanical Name: | Anastatica hierochuntica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in arid, well-drained area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with unobstructed sunlight indoors or outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use unglazed pots for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in arid conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/21–27°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; mature plant in 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning in cold; stunted growth or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures cause root damage and slow metabolic processes, leading to decline.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves and dehydrate the plant, causing stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnastatica hierochuntica is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAnastatica hierochuntica is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAnastatica hierochuntica, commonly known as the Rose of Jericho, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often used in traditional practices for its perceived spiritual and symbolic significance rather than for its medicinal properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for the Rose of Jericho?
A: Place the dried ball in a shallow dish of water; it will unfurl within hours. Replace water every few days to prevent rot.
Q: Is the Rose of Jericho toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can the Rose of Jericho grow into a full plant?
A: While it can germinate under ideal conditions, it is primarily grown for its resurrection display rather than as a traditional houseplant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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