You surely know the story of Sleeping Beauty, right? The princess who was cursed by a witch at birth, but whose “punishment” was mitigated by a fairy: instead of dying, the girl slept soundly. This is more or less the story of a rather strange plant called Jericho rose.
No, she hasn’t been cursed by a witch, nor is she waiting for a prince charming. However, it appears to be dead when in reality it is just resting in a very peaceful sleep.
What?
That’s right. The Jericho rose, whose scientific name is Selaginella lepidophylla, is typical of the desert regions. Therefore, it has a very special ability: dehydration.
This plant enters a dormant state called anhydrobiosis: it closes up and stays dry, looking like a haystack most of the time. That way, it looks like a dead plant — similar to the one you have in a corner of your home that hasn’t seen water since 1997.
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Rose of Jericho: The Resurrection Plant
But take it easy. It won’t stay like this forever. The Rose of Jericho is called the “Resurrection Plant” because it unfolds and turns green again when it comes into contact with moisture.
She has also earned the nickname “Flower of Immortality” over time for the same reason.
In some cultures it is still considered divine and blessed by the gods. It is even believed to have mystical powers and can be used in sympathies to attract wealth and ward off negative energies.
I loved! can i have it at home
Yes you can, but remember that the Jericho rose is a desert climate plant. To give you an idea, it comes from the deserts of Arabia, Palestine, Egypt and around the Red Sea.
So let’s go. The first thing to know is that it doesn’t need a floor. You can put it in any container. However, it is recommended to cover the bottom with a layer of gravel to ensure drainage.
The plant also needs direct light for about four hours a day and indirect light the rest of the time.
And it’s not because you’re dehydrated that you shouldn’t stay in the water. You must leave it immersed for a while, but a maximum of three days. Otherwise it could mold and die (really this time).
Ah, if you live in a cold place, think about it. The Rose of Jericho prefers milder climates and does not tolerate low temperatures.