Rose of Jericho - Selaginella Lepidophylla

False Rose of Jerico Flower

What is a false rose of Jericho?

Selaginella lepidophylla is a species of desert plant in the spikemoss family. Known as a "resurrection plant". False rose of Jericho is renowned for its ability to survive almost complete desiccation. During dry weather in its native habitat, its stems curl into a tight ball, uncurling only when exposed to moisture. This flower gets its name for being very similar to the authentic rose of Jericho.

“Resurrection plant” is not the name of a single species of plant. Rather, resurrection plants are poikilohydric plants that can tolerate severe dehydration. (In a nutshell, poikilohydric plants lack the ability to maintain water content.)

There are about 135 species of resurrection plants.

Care

Place the rose of Jericho in a shallow dish or bowl. Add enough water to cover the roots. The plant will start to uncurl in about 4 hours and reach full capacity in a few days. Change the water daily or every 2 days.

Do not leave it in water for more than 7 days. Let the plant dry out completely in between use.