How to Take Care of Your Jericho Rose Plant

The Jericho Rose is a unique plant that is said to bring good luck to those who have it in their home. Unlike most other plants, it does not need soil to grow. All it needs is a sunny spot and some water.

If you’re thinking of getting a Jericho Rose, read on. In this blog post, we’ll share everything you need to know about this intriguing plant.

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What is a Jericho Rose?

Jericho Rose goes by many names – Rose of Jericho, Resurrection plant, or even dinosaur plant. This hardy little desert dweller can survive for years without water, surviving on the moisture released by morning dew.

The Jericho Rose will curl up into a ball when conditions are arid, looking like nothing more than dead twigs. However, given even a tiny amount of water, it will quickly transform, uncurling its leaves as it “resurrects.”

In many ways, the Jericho Rose is a symbol of hope, overcoming adversity, and flourishing in the face of challenging conditions.

Is There More Than One Rose of Jericho?

There are two species of plants commonly referred to as the “Rose of Jericho.” And, just to keep things confusing, people often call both of them “Resurrection plants.”

The one we’re talking about in this article is Selaginella lepidophylla, sometimes referred to as the “false Rose of Jericho.” It’s native to the deserts of Mexico and the southwestern United States and is part of the spike moss family.

The other “Rose of Jericho” is Anastatica hierochuntica, a member of the mustard family. Anastatica hierochuntica is found in North Africa and the Middle East.

While both plants share some similarities (they’re small, desert-dwelling, and can survive without water for long periods), they’re actually quite different.

How Does It Grow In Its Natural Habitat?

This fascinating plant can survive in extremely dry conditions. Like other desert plants, it has evolved to withstand long periods of drought.

When water is scarce, it will curl up its stems into a tight ball, conserving moisture and preventing evaporation. Once exposed to moisture, it will uncurl and begin to photosynthesize again.

How Do You Take Care of a Rose of Jericho Plant?

This is what’s so exciting – it’s super-easy (and fun) to take care of as an indoor plant. The roots don’t have to be placed in soil for the plant to grow. A little water is all it needs.

If your plant is in a dormant state, simply place it in a bowl of water. Within 24 hours, you’ll see it come back to life!

Once it has finished absorbing water, you can remove it from the bowl and allow it to dry out. In fact, you don’t want to leave it in water for more than a few days as it can rot.

When the plant has dried out, it will curl up again. It can be kept in this state for months,

To rehydrate it, simply place it back in a bowl of water whenever you want to see it “come back to life” again.

How Long Does It Take for a Rose of Jericho to Open?

It will usually open within 4 hours of being placed in room-temperature water. However, if the air temperature is particularly warm or cold, it may take longer to uncurl.

Water Requirements

It doesn’t need much water to thrive. In its natural habitat, the plant relies on the moisture released by morning dew. When you’re taking care of a Jericho Rose, simply place it in a bowl of water and allow it to absorb what it needs. Once it has perked up, remove it from the water and allow it to dry out.

If you plan to keep your plant out all the time (i.e., not in storage), then water it once a month.

Light Requirements

The plant does best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. If you’re growing it indoors, place it near a window where it will get plenty of sunlight.

Where to Buy One

These are easy to get your hands on. You can purchase one online or at your local nursery or big-box store.

Just make sure the label or product listing says Selaginella lepidophylla so that you don’t accidentally buy the other Jericho Rose.

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How to Store

If you’re not ready to display your Jericho Rose right away, you can store it in a cool, dry place. Put it in a paper bag or box to ensure it doesn’t get mashed.

The plant can be stored this way for several months. Then, when you’re ready to bring it out into the open, simply follow the instructions above to revive it.

Propagation Tips

The easiest way to propagate is simply to divide the plant. Gently pull it apart into two or three pieces.

You can divide at any time of year, though it’s most effective during a period when the plant is actively growing.

Place the individual pieces on top of gravel and water lightly.

Wrapping Up

The Jericho Rose is an easy-to-care-for houseplant that doesn’t need to be placed in soil. It can be kept in a bowl of water to absorb moisture. It does best in bright, indirect light. A dormant plant can survive with no water or light, making it extremely hard to kill. Anytime you want to revive it, simply place it in a bowl of water for a few hours.

FAQs

Is a Rose of Jericho the same as a resurrection plant?

Yes, the Rose of Jericho is also known as the resurrection plant.

What does Rose of Jericho do?

The Rose of Jericho is known for its ability to “come back to life.” It can go without water or light for long periods, and then, with just a little moisture, it will uncurl and begin growing again.

How long does Rose of Jericho live?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Some sources say that the plant can live for hundreds of years, while others claim it only lives for a few years. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle. With proper care, your Rose of Jericho should last for many years.