How to Grow Resurrection Plant
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Resurrection Plant
Selaginella lepidophylla
grassSelaginella lepidophylla is a remarkable pteridophyte native to the Chihuahuan Desert that can survive extreme desiccation by entering a dormant state, curling into a tight ball when dry. When rehydrated, it rapidly unfurls and returns to full vitality, earning its common name. This unique survival mechanism makes it a fascinating houseplant for collectors interested in botanical curiosities.
When should you plant Resurrection Plant in your zone?
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Example Resurrection Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Resurrection Plant
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Resurrection Plant
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Resurrection Plant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; best grown indoors or in controlled environments in cooler climates
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Get my Resurrection Plant timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksNewly purchased or rehydrated plant begins to unfurl from dormant ball form; fronds slowly expand and regain green coloration
Mist daily; maintain high humidity; place in bright indirect light; avoid fertilizing for 2-3 weeks; water gently and sparingly initially
Active Growth
3-6 monthsPlant fully unfurled with vibrant green, delicate feathery foliage; new fronds emerge from the center
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; provide bright indirect light; fertilize monthly with dilute liquid fertilizer (half strength); ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Peak Vigor
Ongoing with proper carePlant reaches full size and density with dense clusters of fine, fern-like foliage; compact mounding form is fully developed
Continue regular misting; keep soil evenly moist; maintain humidity; reduce fertilization to every 6-8 weeks; prune any dead fronds
Dormancy (Optional)
Variable (weeks to years)Plant naturally curls into a tight ball when exposed to prolonged drying; leaves turn gray-brown and appear completely desiccated
Allow soil to dry completely; plant can remain dormant for months or years; store in cool, dry location; rehydrate by misting or watering gradually over several days
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate plant; inspect regularly; wipe with alcohol-soaked cotton swab
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Increase humidity through frequent misting; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Remove manually with soft brush; treat with horticultural oil; isolate plant; repeat applications every 7-10 days
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Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply sand mulch to soil surface; reduce overall watering frequency
Uses
Living Decorative Houseplant
HouseholdServes as a unique, low-maintenance interior plant for terrariums, dish gardens, and container displays. Its delicate fern-like appearance adds texture and visual interest to plant collections. [source]
Educational and Botanical Curiosity
CraftDemonstrates remarkable desiccation tolerance and anhydrobiosis, making it valuable for educational purposes and as a conversation piece. The ability to repeatedly cycle between dormancy and active growth illustrates exceptional plant adaptations. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalUsed in traditional Mexican folk medicine for various ailments and is believed in some cultures to have restorative properties, though scientific evidence is limited. Generally recognized as safe but not widely used in modern herbalism. [source]
Terrarium and Vivarium Addition
WildlifeSuitable for use in humid terrariums and moisture-loving reptile or amphibian enclosures. Provides naturalistic plant cover while tolerating the conditions of enclosed plant environments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Selaginella lepidophylla is not harvested for food or material use. Instead, enjoy its aesthetic and botanical value as a living houseplant. Can be propagated by division of the main plant during active growth season (spring/summer).
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Selaginella lepidophylla can lose up to 95% of its water content and enter a state of cryptobiosis, remaining viable for years in a completely desiccated state and returning to life within hours of rehydration—a phenomenon that has fascinated botanists for centuries.
- 🌱 This plant is native to the Chihuahuan Desert and was used ceremonially by indigenous peoples, with some calling it the 'Rose of Jericho' (though true Rose of Jericho is a different plant, Anastatica hierochuntica).
- 🌱 The plant's ability to survive extreme conditions has made it a subject of scientific research into stress tolerance mechanisms and potential applications in protecting other crops from drought and environmental stress.
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