Rose of Jericho - Sanginella (The Resurrection Plant)

Rose of Jericho - Sanginella  (The Resurrection Plant)

A truly magical plant!

Selaginella, commonly known as the Rose of Jericho, Desert Rose or Resurrection Plant is an intriguing plant native to the desert regions of Central America and the Middle East.

The Rose of Jericho’s ability to rise from the state of the ‘dead’ has made it a symbol of hope and rebirth across various cultures.

In Christian tradition, it is associated with the resurrection of Christ, hence the name. In folk magic, it’s believed to bring peace, power, and protection from bad spells into a home. 

To wake the plant up at in time just mist it with water and place your plant ontop of a low saucer filled with pebbles and water.

Once exposed to the water the plant will unfurl it's fronds usually within an hour of being soaked, it will then turn progressively  more green over several days.

These plants can stand dehydration for years but once exposed to water it returns to life within hours.

For plant lovers, the Rose of Jericho an such an interesting addition to their houseplant collection, which is also incredibly low maintenance.

Its care requires only a shallow dish and intermittent watering. When hydrated, it thrives without soil, drawing nutrients from its hardy, self-sustaining structure.

Beyond its visual appeal and symbolic importance, the Rose of Jericho is attributed to various therapeutic properties and health benefits.

Herbalists have used it for centuries for its supposed benefits, which range from skin rejuvenation to immune system support. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. We do not recommend using it for any therapeutic or medical treatment but have to admit that watching it turning from a dry ball into a lush, green plant is very relaxing!

Do you have a question ?

Q: What is the optimal temperature for the Rose of Jericho to resurrect?

A: The ideal temperature for the plant to resurrect is between 20°C to 30°C, which is conducive to its revival and health.

Q: What if not all leaves turn green during the resurrection?

A: If some leaves remain brown, it could be due to insufficient water coverage or some leaves are naturally too old and have lost their ability to revive. It is totally normal and happens often as the plants’ leaves are ageing, it will not impact the health of the plant.

Q: How long should the Rose of Jericho be kept green?

A: It’s recommended to keep the plant green for a few days to 1-2 weeks at most. Then, allow it to dry out to prevent rot and to follow its natural lifecycle.

Q: How can I return the Rose of Jericho to its dry state?

A: Remove the plant from the water and place it in an area with good air circulation. The plant will naturally dehydrate and curl up as it dries, a process that may take a few days depending on environmental conditions.

Q: What happens if I leave the Rose of Jericho in water for an extended period?

A: Continuous soaking can cause the plant to rot or develop mould. It is important to let it dry out after a period of hydration to maintain its health and resilience.

Q: Is the Rose of Jericho Pet friendly?

A: The Rose of Jericho is generally considered to be pet-friendly, as there are no known toxic effects reported for cats and dogs in the literature. However, it’s always best to keep an eye on pets around plants, as individual animals may have unique sensitivities or the tendency to chew on foliage, which could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset

The Rose of Jericho is more than a plant; it is a symbol of life’s cycle and natural ability to survive in the most extreme conditions. The plant is inspiring and intriguing. This fascinating plant would be a great gift for anybody who loves plants and nature as well as for children who can watch it turning green in water and learn about flora in an interesting way.