Resurrection Plant
selaginella lepidophylla
Also known as: ["Rose of Jericho","False Rose of Jericho"]
Overview
A desert plant known for its ability to survive extreme dehydration and 'resurrect' when watered.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Selaginellales |
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus: | Selaginella |
| Botanical Name: | Selaginella lepidophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright indirect light, or outdoor in a sheltered spot with good drainage
- 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, sandy soil with some organic matter, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead fronds are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window. Outdoors, provide partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
1. Water only when the plant is fully dehydrated and appears shriveled; 2. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; 3. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to decay.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay soils; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone if desired, plant in moist propagation medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; full establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing fronds at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors
Checklist
Check for dead fronds, use clean tools, prune at the base, dispose of clippings
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years. This species prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Check root-bound status, use fresh soil, ensure good drainage, minimal root disturbance, water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check dryness, use well-draining soil, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly, ensuring water reaches the root zone, but allow excess to drain completely. Water early in the day to minimize fungal issues. Avoid wetting the foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing the plant to dry out completely between waterings. During dormancy (typically winter), reduce watering further to mimic arid conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause the plant to enter dormancy, curling tightly and appearing desiccated.
Solution: Move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). Reduce watering during dormancy to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf burn, or premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid dormant period
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half-strength) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSelaginella lepidophylla is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicSelaginella lepidophylla is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicSelaginella lepidophylla is not known to exhibit any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the Resurrection Plant survive without water?
A: It curls into a tight ball to minimize water loss and rehydrates when water becomes available.
Q: Is the Resurrection Plant toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Can the Resurrection Plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a container with well-draining soil and bright light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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