The Rose of Jericho is a plant famous for its incredible ability to appear lifeless and then revive. This "resurrection" has fascinated people for centuries. It holds a special place in various cultures and traditions. Known by many names, this unique plant sparks curiosity about its science and symbolism. This article will explore the captivating story of the Rose of Jericho. We will cover its botanical identity, the science behind its revival, its cultural significance, and how to care for it.
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The name "Rose of Jericho" can be confusing because it refers to two different plant species. Each plant has its own unique characteristics and origins. Knowing the difference is important for accurate information and proper care.
Anastatica hierochuntica: The True Rose of Jericho
The Anastatica hierochuntica is considered the true Rose of Jericho. It comes from the dry regions of the Middle East and the Sahara Desert. This is a small, gray annual herb, usually growing less than 15 centimeters tall. When dry, its branches curl inward into a tight ball, helping it survive harsh desert conditions. This plant shows hygroscopic movement, opening and closing with changes in moisture. However, its dead tissues do not turn green when rehydrated. It belongs to the mustard family, Brassicaceae. Historically, it has been called "Flower of Maryam" and "Hand of Mary," holding cultural significance in Christianity and Islam. Its connection to the ancient city of Jericho adds to its name and symbolism of endurance and rebirth.
Selaginella lepidophylla: The False Rose of Jericho or Resurrection Plant
The other plant known as the Rose of Jericho is Selaginella lepidophylla. It is often called the false Rose of Jericho or the resurrection plant. This species is native to the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States and Mexico. When hydrated, it looks like a fern with delicate green stems and leaves forming a low mat. Its most notable feature is its ability to truly "resurrect." In dry conditions, it curls into a tight, brown ball, appearing dead. But when exposed to moisture, it can revive, unfurling its fronds and turning vibrant green. This species belongs to the spikemoss family, Selaginellaceae. Besides "Resurrection Plant," it's also known as "Stone Flower" and "Dinosaur Plant". Due to its dramatic revival, Selaginella lepidophylla is the one most often sold as the Rose of Jericho.
Key Differences Summarized
Here's a table highlighting the main differences between the two plants:
| Feature | Anastatica hierochuntica (True Rose of Jericho) | Selaginella lepidophylla (False Rose of Jericho/Resurrection Plant) |
|---|---|---|
| Native Region | Middle East, Sahara Desert | Chihuahuan Desert (USA & Mexico) |
| Botanical Family | Brassicaceae (Mustard) | Selaginellaceae (Spikemoss) |
| Appearance (Dry) | Small, gray ball | Brown, tightly curled ball |
| Appearance (Hydrated) | Spreads open, remains grayish/straw-colored, may produce small white flowers | Unfurls into a green, fern-like plant |
| "Resurrection" Ability | Hygroscopic movement (opens/closes with moisture), dead tissues don't turn green | True resurrection (revives and turns green) |
| Reproduction | Seeds | Spores |
| Common Names | Flower of Maryam, Hand of Mary, Resurrection Plant, Tumbleweed | Resurrection Plant, Stone Flower, Dinosaur Plant, Rose Heart, Siempre Viva |
| Availability | Less common | More common |
Understanding these distinctions is important when seeking information or purchasing, as their care and characteristics differ.
The ability of the Rose of Jericho, specifically Selaginella lepidophylla, to revive is due to its survival mechanisms in harsh deserts. This "resurrection" is a biological reactivation, not just physical unfolding.
Desiccation Tolerance and Trehalose
Selaginella lepidophylla can lose up to 95% of its water and enter dormancy for years. It produces a unique sugar called trehalose. Trehalose protects cells by preventing salt crystallization and stabilizing structures during drying.
Unique Biological Structure
The plant's leaves and stems have a special structure that aids revival. Spirally arranged stems have specialized cells, including an annular cortical tissue layer and a central vascular bundle. During dehydration, lignified cells control stem stiffness and curling. Upon rehydration, these tissues quickly absorb water, causing the plant to unfurl and turn green.
Metabolic Reactivation
In dormancy, the metabolism is minimal. When water is restored, trehalose dissolves, and metabolic processes like photosynthesis restart. This cycle of dormancy and revival can repeat many times. This remarkable ability has fascinated people and contributed to its symbolism.
Caring for Selaginella lepidophylla is easy, making it a low-maintenance houseplant. Follow these guidelines to enjoy its revival process and beauty.
Light
Place your Rose of Jericho in bright, indirect light. East- or west-facing windows are usually best. Avoid direct sunlight, which can harm the fronds.
Water
The revival process is key to care.
Soil
While often grown in water with pebbles, it can also be planted in well-draining, sandy soil. If in soil, keep it consistently moist.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintain a temperature between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18–29°C). Avoid extreme temperature changes or drafts. Humidity is usually not an issue when hydrated. If it goes dormant indoors and the air is dry, mist it occasionally with distilled water.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing is usually not needed. If you think your plant needs it, use a very diluted liquid organic fertilizer (1/10th strength) twice a year: early spring and midsummer.
Pruning
Pruning is rarely needed. Remove any mushy, damaged, or broken stems with clean scissors. The best time is after reviving the plant.
Propagation
You can propagate by division.
By following these instructions, you can enjoy your Rose of Jericho's transformation. Observe your plant and adjust care as needed.
The Rose of Jericho has cultural, spiritual, and traditional medicinal value.
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Anastatica hierochuntica has been used in traditional medicine for various conditions. These include menstrual cramps, childbirth, arthritis pain, and respiratory issues. It's often prepared as a tea. Some believe it aids in childbirth. Research suggests it contains beneficial compounds like flavonoids. However, scientific evidence is limited, and caution is advised. Pregnant women and those with medical conditions should consult a doctor before use due to potential risks.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Both Selaginella lepidophylla and Anastatica hierochuntica symbolize resilience, rebirth, hope, and longevity.
Decorative and Novelty Use
The Rose of Jericho is also appreciated as a unique decorative plant, captivating people with its transformation. Its ability to seemingly die and revive makes it a symbol of life's cycles.
You can find Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla and sometimes Anastatica hierochuntica) from various online sources.
Online Marketplaces
Specialty Plant Retailers
When buying online, read the product description carefully to ensure you get the desired species. "Rose of Jericho" usually refers to Selaginella lepidophylla. If you want Anastatica hierochuntica, check for the botanical name. Customer reviews can also provide helpful information.
The Rose of Jericho, whether Anastatica hierochuntica or Selaginella lepidophylla, is a symbol of nature's power and the enduring spirit of life. Its ability to revive from desiccation has fascinated people and holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning. Representing resilience and hope, it invites us to witness its "resurrection" and appreciate the strength within the natural world.
While both the Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) and the resurrection fern (Pleopeltis polypodioides) can revive after drying out, they are different plant species. The Rose of Jericho is native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico, whereas the resurrection fern is commonly found in the southeastern United States, often growing on trees. They belong to different plant families and have distinct appearances when fully hydrated.
With proper care, the Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) is believed to have a very long lifespan, potentially living for many years and even through generations. Its ability to repeatedly enter dormancy and revive allows it to endure harsh conditions and persist over extended periods. As long as it is allowed to dry out and rehydrate periodically, it can continue its cycle of life.
Yes, even in its dormant, tightly curled brown ball state, the Rose of Jericho is believed to still hold its spiritual properties. It is said to continuously absorb negative energies and bring peace, abundance, and harmony into the home, regardless of whether it is currently hydrated or dry. Many believe its mere presence offers blessings and good luck.
The water in which a Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) is revived is often considered to carry the plant's transformative energy and can be used for various spiritual purposes. Some use it in cleansing rituals for their home or as a spiritual bath for personal purification. It is also believed that sprinkling this water around doorways can invite prosperity and protection.
It is generally recommended to revive your Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) for no more than a few days to a week at a time. After this period, it is important to allow the plant to dry out completely and return to its dormant state for at least a day or two, or even up to a month, to mimic its natural cycle and prevent rot. You can then revive it again whenever you wish to witness its transformation.
While the Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) is often grown in water with pebbles, it can also be planted in a pot with well-draining, sandy soil, similar to its native desert environment. If grown in soil, it requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. However, water cultivation is a preferred method for many as it offers more flexibility and easier drying periods.
Yes, the Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) can be toxic to both dogs and cats. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of your pets to prevent any potential health issues if they ingest it. If you suspect your pet has consumed part of the plant, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.
The name "Rose of Jericho" is associated with the biblical city of Jericho due to the plant's remarkable ability to seemingly be reborn or "rise from its ashes" after long periods of dryness. This resilience and capacity for revival mirror the history of the city, which has been rebuilt multiple times. The Arabic name for the true Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica), "Kaff Maryam" (the palm of Mary), also links it to religious traditions.
The true (Anastatica hierochuntica) exhibits hygroscopic movement, meaning it opens and closes in response to moisture, but its dead tissues do not turn green. The false (Selaginella lepidophylla) is a true resurrection plant; it can fully revive its metabolic functions and turn green again after being completely dried out. This dramatic greening upon rehydration is the key difference in their revival process.
The true Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica) may produce small white flowers when fully hydrated and if it is rooted in soil. However, the more commonly sold false Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) does not typically flower; it reproduces through spores and has a fern-like appearance when revived. Some might observe what appear to be small white buds on Selaginella lepidophylla, but these are not true flowers.
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