Basic Information
Common Name: Rose of Jericho
Scientific Name: Anastatica hierochuntica
Native Habitat: Deserts of North Africa, Southwest Asia, and the Middle East
History / Discovery / Cultivator
The Rose of Jericho, Anastatica hierochuntica, is a resurrection plant, a name derived from its remarkable ability to survive almost complete desiccation and revive when exposed to moisture. Its history is intertwined with religious and cultural significance across several regions. The plant’s association with resurrection likely stems from its seemingly dead, brown appearance transforming into a vibrant green state upon rehydration, a symbolic parallel recognized in Christianity, where it is often associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
While the precise origins of its discovery by modern botanists are difficult to pinpoint, its presence in the Middle East and North Africa has been known for centuries. The plant is mentioned in various historical texts, often linked to folklore and traditional medicine. It wasn’t “cultivated” in the modern sense of selective breeding, but rather collected from its natural habitat and used for its purported medicinal properties and symbolic value. Its use as a natural barometer, opening in humid conditions and closing when dry, also contributed to its widespread appeal.
The geographical origins of the Rose of Jericho are concentrated in arid regions, primarily the deserts of North Africa, including areas of Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco, as well as parts of Southwest Asia and the Middle East, encompassing countries like Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. These harsh environments have shaped the plant’s unique adaptations for survival, allowing it to endure prolonged periods of drought. The plant’s ability to disperse its seeds via hygroscopic movement (opening and closing in response to humidity) further contributes to its distribution across these landscapes. Because of its ease of movement in a dried state, it’s often traded and has become a symbol of resilience and renewal, travelling far beyond its initial geographic boundaries and becoming associated with spiritual practices in many parts of the world. It is important to note that there is a separate plant called Selaginella lepidophylla, which is also called a Rose of Jericho, however, that plant comes from the Chihuahuan Desert.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Indirect sunlight | Prefers bright, indirect light when actively growing. Avoid direct harsh sun. |
| Water | Minimal | Water only when rehydrating. Allow to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering will kill it. |
| Humidity | Low | Prefers low humidity. High humidity can cause rot when in a hydrated state. |
| Temp. Range | 60-80°F (15-27°C) | Tolerates a wide range but prefers moderate temperatures. |
| Soil Type | Not applicable | This plant is typically grown without soil. |
| Fertilizer | Not necessary | Does not require fertilizer. |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic | Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
The Rose of Jericho’s primary adaptation is its ability to undergo desiccation tolerance, also known as anhydrobiosis. This allows the plant to lose up to 95% of its water content and enter a dormant state, appearing completely dead. During this process, the plant curls into a tight ball, protecting its reproductive structures. When exposed to moisture, the plant rapidly rehydrates, unfolding its fronds and displaying a vibrant green color. This allows it to survive long periods without water. It also possesses specialized cells that protect vital cell structures during dehydration, preventing damage that would otherwise occur. The seed pods open upon rehydration, dispersing the seeds. The curled form also allows the wind to easily move the plant and disperse the seeds to new habitats.
Propagation Methods
The Rose of Jericho is primarily propagated by seed, although success rates can vary. The seeds are typically dispersed naturally by the plant when it rehydrates. To propagate, seeds can be sown on the surface of a moist, well-draining medium after the plant is hydrated. Ensuring consistent moisture is crucial for germination, however, overwatering is also harmful. The plant can also be propagated by simply allowing it to dry out and then rehydrating it. This will help it disperse its seeds, which can then be collected and planted.
Toxicology
The Rose of Jericho is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Due to its dry, fibrous nature, it may also pose a choking hazard, especially to small children and pets. It is always recommended to keep plants out of reach of children and pets, even if they are considered non-toxic.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Spider mites (when hydrated and kept in humid conditions)
Diseases:
- Root rot (due to overwatering or keeping the plant constantly wet)
- Mold (due to high humidity)
Other:
- Failure to open: insufficient humidity or water during attempted rehydration.
- Rotting smell: indicates the plant has died due to overwatering.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
The Rose of Jericho is not considered particularly rare in its native habitat. However, its unique properties and symbolic significance have made it a popular item in some regions, leading to increased demand.
Value:
The value of a Rose of Jericho is generally low, primarily determined by its size and overall appearance. Larger, well-formed specimens may command a slightly higher price.
