The resurrection plant, scientifically known as Selaginella lepidophylla, is a fascinating and resilient species that has captivated gardeners worldwide. Often called the “rose of Jericho,” this unique plant can survive extreme dehydration and seemingly come back to life with a little water. Growing resurrection plants in your backyard garden is a rewarding experience that requires understanding their natural habitat, care needs, and growth conditions. In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on knowledge to help you successfully cultivate this amazing plant in your garden.
What is a Resurrection Plant?
The resurrection plant is a remarkable example of nature’s resilience. Native to the deserts of Mexico and the southwestern United States, this plant has adapted to survive long periods without water. When dry, it curls into a tight ball and appears dead, but once rehydrated, it unfurls and turns green again, “resurrecting” itself. This extraordinary ability makes it a unique addition to any backyard garden, especially for those who appreciate drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plants.
Unlike typical plants that wilt and die when deprived of water, resurrection plants enter a dormant state called cryptobiosis, which protects their cells until conditions improve. This survival strategy allows gardeners to keep the plant in a dry state for long periods without worry. Understanding these biological adaptations is essential for anyone interested in growing resurrection plants successfully.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Resurrection Plant
Location is a key factor in growing a healthy resurrection plant. Since it naturally thrives in desert environments, it prefers bright light but indirect sun to prevent leaf burn. In your backyard, find a spot where the plant can receive morning sunlight or dappled shade during the afternoon. Avoid harsh, direct afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, as it can cause stress to the plant.
The resurrection plant also benefits from good air circulation, which mimics its natural desert breezes. However, keep it protected from strong winds that can dry it out too quickly. If you live in a region with cooler winters, it’s best to grow your resurrection plant in a pot so you can bring it indoors during cold spells, as it does not tolerate freezing temperatures well.
When planting directly in the ground, choose a well-draining soil bed in a semi-shaded area. Using raised beds or rock gardens can replicate its natural rocky desert habitat, promoting drainage and preventing root rot. Proper location ensures your resurrection plant stays healthy and ready to “resurrect” with each watering.
Soil and Potting Requirements
One of the secrets to successfully growing resurrection plants is providing the right soil conditions. These plants need extremely well-draining soil to mimic their native desert environment. A mix of sandy, rocky soil combined with organic matter is ideal. You can create your own blend by mixing cactus or succulent potting soil with sand or perlite to increase drainage.
If you’re growing your resurrection plant in a container, choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting around the roots, which can cause rot. A shallow pot is preferable because these plants have relatively small root systems. Avoid heavy or clay soils that retain moisture, as the resurrection plant thrives in dryness.
Occasionally, you can add a thin layer of small gravel or coarse sand on the soil surface to prevent water evaporation and replicate desert terrain. This setup will help keep the roots healthy and provide the stability the plant needs to unfold fully when watered. Monitoring soil moisture and drainage is essential for the long-term survival of your resurrection plant.
Watering and Care Tips for Resurrection Plants
Watering resurrection plants is unlike most other plants — the key is to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. These plants are adapted to survive drought and can easily suffer from overwatering. When you water, soak the soil thoroughly and watch the plant unfurl its leaves in a dramatic green revival. Then, allow the plant to dry out naturally and curl back into its dormant ball shape.
During the growing season, usually spring through early fall, you can water every 2 to 3 weeks depending on your climate. In the dormant phase, watering should be minimal or stopped entirely. Always check the soil moisture before watering — if it still feels damp, hold off.
Resurrection plants prefer moderate humidity but can tolerate dry air, making them perfect for arid backyard gardens. They don’t require fertilization, but if you want to encourage growth during the active period, a diluted, balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month. Be careful not to overfeed, as these plants are naturally slow growers.
Propagation and Growth Cycle
One of the joys of growing resurrection plants is propagating them to expand your garden. The most common method is by division — gently separating the small offshoots or offsets from the main plant during its hydrated phase. Once divided, place the offsets on well-draining soil and water lightly. They should begin to root and grow within a few weeks.
Resurrection plants grow slowly but steadily under the right conditions. Their growth cycle is closely linked to water availability — they will grow green and lush when hydrated and curl up during drought. This cycle is not only fascinating to watch but also teaches patience and respect for natural rhythms in gardening.
With time, your resurrection plant may develop small, yellowish spore-bearing structures that help with reproduction, though spores are rarely used for home propagation due to their complexity. The division method is simpler and more reliable for backyard gardeners.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
While resurrection plants are hardy, they can face a few common issues if not cared for properly. The most frequent problem is overwatering, which leads to root rot and fungal infections. Symptoms include blackened stems, mushy roots, or a failure to unfurl after watering. The solution is to reduce watering frequency and improve drainage immediately.
Another issue is insufficient light, which causes the plant to become dull and weak. If you notice faded or yellow leaves, move your plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight. Conversely, too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch — brown, crispy edges indicate the plant is getting too much sun.
Pests are generally rare on resurrection plants but watch for mealybugs or spider mites, especially if grown indoors. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Regularly inspecting your plant for signs of stress will help catch problems early and keep your resurrection plant thriving.
Why Grow Resurrection Plants in Your Backyard Garden?
Growing resurrection plants in your backyard offers both aesthetic and educational benefits. Their unique ability to “come back to life” makes them a captivating conversation piece and a natural wonder to observe. These plants are perfect for gardeners interested in drought-tolerant species, xeriscaping, or adding unusual plants to rock gardens and container collections.
From a sustainability perspective, resurrection plants require minimal water and care, making them eco-friendly options for regions prone to drought or water restrictions. They also encourage learning about plant survival strategies and desert ecosystems, making gardening more meaningful and connected to nature.
For backyard gardeners like myself, the resurrection plant is a symbol of resilience and patience — qualities that gardening continually teaches us. Whether you’re a novice or experienced gardener, adding this incredible plant to your collection will enrich your gardening experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the resurrection plant used for?
The resurrection plant is often used for decorative purposes, spiritual rituals, and traditional medicine. It symbolizes resilience and renewal because it can survive extreme dehydration and “come back to life” when watered, inspiring hope and vitality in various cultural contexts.
What is the secret behind the resurrection plant?
The secret lies in its ability to enter a dormant state during drought by curling up and halting metabolism. When rehydrated, it rapidly revives by absorbing water and restoring cellular function, thanks to special proteins and protective sugars that prevent damage during drying.
How long can a resurrection plant live?
Resurrection plants can live for many years, often decades, as long as they undergo cycles of dehydration and rehydration. Their unique adaptation allows them to survive long dry periods, pausing growth until water becomes available again.
How to keep a resurrection plant alive?
To keep it alive, allow the plant to dry completely between waterings. Place it in indirect light and water it occasionally to trigger revival. Avoid overwatering or direct sunlight, which can damage its delicate structure and reduce its lifespan.
How long does it take for a Rose of Jericho to work?
The Rose of Jericho typically begins to open and revive within a few hours of watering. Full revival, where it unfurls completely and turns green, usually occurs within 24 to 48 hours, depending on conditions like temperature and humidity.
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References
- Smith, J. (2019). Desert Plants and Their Survival Mechanisms. Desert Botanical Garden Press.
- National Park Service. (n.d.). Selaginella lepidophylla (Resurrection Plant). Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/articles/selaginella-lepidophylla.htm
- University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. (2022). Growing Succulents and Cacti in the Desert Southwest. Retrieved from https://extension.arizona.edu/growing-succulents-cacti
- Royal Horticultural Society. (2023). How to Care for Resurrection Plants. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/selaginella-lepidophylla
