The real rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica) – although by the way it is not a rose! – comes from the desert areas of Israel, Jordan and Sinai and is also known as the “resurrection plant”. The so-called loggerhead rose of Jericho is often sold under this name, although it is actually a still living moss fern. With the right care, this can reach a considerable age.
How to care for the loggerhead rose of Jericho?
Caring for the loggerhead rose of Jericho includes a full sun, protected location, nutrient-poor substrate such as cactus soil, sparing watering and no fertilization. You can revive them by placing them in cold water and then planting them.
Can you actually cultivate the fake rose of Jericho here?
In contrast to the real rose of Jericho - which is a dead plant - the loggerhead rose of Jericho is alive and can therefore also be cultivated here. As a rule, this non-hardy moss fern is kept as a houseplant. After it has turned green for the first time, you can plant it in a pot with sand or cactus soil. On warm and sunny summer days, the planter can also be placed outside.
Which location does the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho prefer?
As a desert plant, the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho requires a full sun and protected location without any shade. The place should be warm and not drafty.
In which substrate should you plant the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho?
Plant the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho in a very nutrient-poor substrate such as cactus soil (€12.00 at Amazon). Alternatively, a mixture of coarse sand, perlite and lavalite is also suitable.
What is the water requirement of the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho?
The Loggerhead Rose of Jericho is a poikilohydric (i.e. alternately moist) desert plant that can survive completely without water for several months. The completely dried plant turns green after a rain shower, showing the so-called resurrection effect. Water the plant rarely and then only very little.
Do you have to fertilize the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho?
Fertilization is not necessary.
How to revive the Loggerhead Rose of Jericho?
You can revive the dried-out Loggerhead Rose of Jericho by placing it in a bowl of cold water. Then, the dead-looking moss fern will turn green within a few hours (unlike the Rose of Jericho, which stays brown). Do not leave the plant in water for more than a few days or it will begin to rot. You can plant them after they have greened up.
Tip
The Loggerhead Rose of Jericho can also be propagated from seeds and cuttings.
