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(Selaginella lepidophylla)
Resurrection Plant (Selaginella lepidophylla)
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© Grete Pasch
CC BY 4.0
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© Grete Pasch
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Grete Pasch | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: gpasch | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Selaginella lepidophylla, commonly known as the resurrection plant, is a perennial herb adapted to the arid conditions of Mexico. This remarkable plant can survive extreme desiccation, curling into a tight ball during dry periods and unfurling when rehydrated. It typically grows up to 2 inches tall and has a fern-like appearance, reproducing by spores rather than seeds. The resurrection plant is a true desert dweller, preferring dry, sandy soils and full sun exposure.
In cultivation, Selaginella lepidophylla is valued for its unique ability to "resurrect" from a seemingly lifeless state, which makes it an interesting and educational novelty item. It is also used in traditional herbal medicine, purportedly to treat colds and sore throats. Its ease of care and resilience to drought make it a fascinating specimen for xeriscaping and as a conversation piece in a home or office setting. While it requires minimal maintenance, it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
In cultivation, Selaginella lepidophylla is valued for its unique ability to "resurrect" from a seemingly lifeless state, which makes it an interesting and educational novelty item. It is also used in traditional herbal medicine, purportedly to treat colds and sore throats. Its ease of care and resilience to drought make it a fascinating specimen for xeriscaping and as a conversation piece in a home or office setting. While it requires minimal maintenance, it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.1-0.2 feet
- Width: 0.4-0.8 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Non-Flowering
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant
Natural Habitat
arid conditions of Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Rose of Jericho, Dinosaur Plant, Resurrection-Plant
Scientific Names: , Selaginella lepidophylla, Lycopodioides lepidophylla, Lycopodium lepidophyllum, Lycopodium nidiforme, Lycopodium nidiforme, Selaginella leptophylla, Selaginella rediviva, Selaginella rediviva, Selaginella thoytsiana,
GBIF Accepted Name: