Resurrection Plant
Selaginella tamariscina
tamariscina
About this plant
Selaginella tamariscina, often called the Resurrection Plant, is a small, fern-like plant known for its ability to survive long dry periods by curling up and appearing dead, then 'resurrecting' when watered. It has delicate, scale-like leaves and a unique texture that makes it popular as a decorative houseplant. It is often used in terrariums or as ground cover in shaded gardens.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Selaginella
- Family
- Selaginellaceae
- Higher classification
- Lycopodiophyta
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- China, Korea, Japan
- Distribution
- Native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan; cultivated worldwide as an ornamental plant.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, Northeast-facing, East-facing, Southeast-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 2–5 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining, peat-based potting mix
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mist regularly to maintain humidity, especially in dry indoor air.
Fertilizing. Feed with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.
Selaginella tamariscina prefers moist, shaded environments and needs consistent humidity to thrive. It can suffer if kept too dry or exposed to direct sunlight. Regular misting and well-draining soil help maintain its health. Overall, it requires moderate care and attention to humidity and watering.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Delicate, feathery foliage with a unique texture and ability to curl up when dry and unfurl when watered, giving a 'resurrection' effect.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Selaginella tamariscina is generally safe for most people and does not commonly cause allergies. However, if you have sensitive skin, avoid prolonged contact with the plant to prevent mild irritation. It does not produce airborne pollen, so it is unlikely to trigger respiratory allergies.
Common problems
Common problems include browning or drying out if the air is too dry or if the plant is exposed to direct sunlight. Overwatering can cause root rot, and insufficient humidity may lead to leaf drop.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its unique appearance and ability to survive drought. Sometimes used in terrariums or shaded garden areas.
Notes
Prune dead or brown parts to encourage new growth. Repot every 2-3 years in fresh soil. Sensitive to dry air; using a humidity tray or misting regularly helps. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.