Various desert plants that have adapted to the inhospitable conditions of their homeland are summarized under the name "Rose of Jericho". These - dead or not - are brought back to life by placing them in a bowl of cold water. For this reason, their lovers also refer to them as "resurrection plants", whereby a deep, mystical meaning is ascribed to the real rose of Jericho in particular. But how can the "false" Jerichorose be distinguished from the "real" one?

The Fake Rose of Jericho is still alive, unlike the real one

The True Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica)

The so-called True Rose of Jericho is widespread in the hot and dry areas of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, Israel and Jordan to Pakistan. The desert plant only lives for a year and dies after the successful formation of pods and seeds. The leaves of the plant curl up and hide the seeds inside - this is to protect the offspring from the relentless desert sun. The next time it rains, the plant unfolds again and now releases the seeds. However, this only appears to be a revival, as the mother plant is - and remains - actually dead.

Revive the True Rose of Jericho

You can experience this revitalizing effect at home by placing the dried jericho rose in a bowl of cold or warm water - it will unfurl within a few hours and turn a dark olive-brown colour.

Fake Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla)

Selaginella lepidophylla, a moss fern from Central America, is sold as the "Rose of Jericho" especially at medieval markets and in the run-up to Christmas. However, this is not the real rose of Jericho, but - basically - a plagiarism. Nevertheless, the resurrection effect of this plant, which is often referred to as the false rose of Jericho, can be understood very well - although it has not actually died, but, as a so-called periodically wet plant, reacts to extreme drought with complete drying out and survives this.

Pallenis hierichuntica

This is a daisy family, also from the desert regions of North Africa and the Middle East, which responds to watering by opening its infructescence. Pallenis hierichuntica is also one of the periodically wet plants.

tips

Whether real or fake: The Rose of Jericho is a popular gift at Christmas and Easter because of its symbolism. In addition, the plant is said to bring health and happiness to the recipient.

Category:

Vegetable garden