You must know the sleeping beauty story, Is not it? The princess who was cursed by a witch when she was born, but had the "penalty" mitigated by a fairy: the maiden slept a deep sleep rather than die. This is more or less the story of a rather curious plant called Jericho rose.
No, she wasn't cursed by a witch, nor is she waiting for a prince charming. However, it appears to be dead, when in fact it just rests in a very peaceful sleep.
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What?
That's right. The Jericho rose, whose scientific name is Selaginella lepidophylla, is typical of the most desert regions. Therefore, it has a very special ability: dehydration.
This plant enters a dormant state called anhydrobiosis: it closes and stays dry, looking like a ball of hay, most of the time. In this way, it takes on the appearance of a dead plant - similar to the one you have in a corner of the house and which has not seen water since 1997.
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Rose of Jericho: The Resurrection Plant
However, take it easy. It doesn't stay that way forever. The rose of Jericho is known as the “resurrection plant” because, when it comes into contact with moisture, it unfolds and turns green again.
Over time, it also gained the nickname “flower of immortality” for the same reason.
In some cultures, it is still considered divine and blessed by the gods. It is even believed that it has mystical powers and can be used in sympathies to attract prosperity and ward off negative energies.
I loved! Can I have it at home?
Yes, you can, but remember that the rose of Jericho is a plant of desert climate. To get an idea, it originates from the deserts of Arabia, Palestine, Egypt and the surroundings of the Red Sea.
So let's go. The first thing you should know is that it doesn't need a soil. You can put it in any container. However, it is advised that there is a layer of gravel on the bottom, just to ensure drainage.
The plant also needs direct light for approximately 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 have to leave it immersed for a little while, but a maximum of three days. Otherwise, it might go moldy and die (for real 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.
Graduated in Social Communication at the Federal University of Goiás. Passionate about digital media, pop culture, technology, politics and psychoanalysis.