ROSE OF JERICHO

Rose of Jericho
 
Selaginella lepidophylla | Resurrection Plant | Resurrection Moss
 
Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) is a remarkable desert plant renowned for its extraordinary ability to survive extreme dehydration and seemingly return to life when water is restored. For centuries, this unusual plant has inspired traditions of resurrection, renewal, protection, prosperity and transformation.
 
Native to the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico and the southwestern United States, Rose of Jericho is a vascular plant adapted to harsh, arid conditions. During prolonged dry periods, its stems curl inward into a tight ball, protecting the plant from dehydration. When moisture returns, the plant gradually unfurls and its leaves turn green again.
 
This remarkable process has made Rose of Jericho a powerful symbol of resilience, rebirth and new beginnings. In Mexico it is sometimes known as Siempre Viva, meaning “live always.”
 
Spiritual & Traditional Uses
 
Rose of Jericho has become associated with a variety of folk-magic and spiritual traditions. It is traditionally used in rituals relating to:
 
Resurrection & renewal — reviving something that has become dormant or stagnant
New beginnings — supporting periods of transition and transformation
Prosperity & abundance — traditionally used in rituals intended to attract wealth and success
Protection & purification — associated with cleansing unwanted or negative energy
Healing & rejuvenation — symbolising recovery and restoration
Love & relationships — sometimes used in rituals intended to rekindle harmony or passion
Manifestation — used as a living symbol for intentions, goals and desired change
 
In some traditions, the plant is placed in water with coins to symbolise continuing prosperity. Crystals or meaningful objects may also be placed upon or near the plant as part of an intention-setting ritual.
 
The water in which Rose of Jericho has been revived is traditionally regarded in some folk practices as spiritually cleansing or blessing water. It may be used symbolically to bless people, objects, doorways or spaces.
 
Some traditions involve writing an intention on paper and allowing the plant to close around it as it dries, symbolising the intention being held until the time is right for its manifestation.
 
Cultural Traditions
 
Rose of Jericho has a long history of use in Mexican and Central American folk traditions and has also become incorporated into various spiritual practices, including some forms of folk Catholicism and Santería.
 
In some traditions it is associated with childbirth, feminine renewal and the opening of the womb. In Christian symbolism, its resurrection after drying has been associated with the resurrection of Christ and, in some traditions, with the Virgin Mary.
 
How to Care for Your Rose of Jericho
 
Before awakening your Rose of Jericho, you may wish to hold it in your hands, meditate, pray or simply take a moment to connect with the plant and set an intention.
 
Place the dried plant in a shallow bowl with its roots in fresh, clean water. Spring water is ideal. Position it somewhere warm with good natural light.
 
Within approximately 6–24 hours, the plant should begin to unfurl and gradually develop its green colour.
 
For best results:
Change the water regularly, ideally every day.
Keep the plant in a bright location.
Avoid keeping it permanently submerged.
Allow it to dry completely at least periodically.
Watch carefully for mould or rot, which can occur when the plant remains wet for too long.
If mould develops, rinse the plant thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
 
Once you have finished working with your Rose of Jericho, remove it from the water and allow it to dry naturally. It will curl back into its dormant form and can then be stored somewhere dry until you wish to awaken it again.
 
Rose of Jericho can be rehydrated repeatedly, although its ability to recover will eventually diminish.
 
A Living Symbol of Transformation
Whether you work with Rose of Jericho botanically, symbolically or spiritually, its extraordinary cycle of dormancy and renewal offers a beautiful reminder:
What appears dormant is not necessarily dead.
Life can return.
New beginnings are always possible.
 
Please note: Rose of Jericho may be toxic to dogs and cats. Keep away from pets and do not ingest unless advised by an appropriately qualified health professional.