The Rose of Jericho has fascinated people around the world for centuries: it can seemingly die and come back to life as soon as it touches water. Whether you want to use it as decor, a gift idea, for spiritual rituals, or just to watch it in action—this page explains everything you need to know about its origins, care, meaning, and the differences between the true and false Rose of Jericho.
What is the Rose of Jericho?
The Rose of Jericho isn’t a “real” rose, but a super-resilient desert plant (usually Selaginella lepidophylla or Anastatica hierochuntica). It’s known for curling up and looking dried out when it’s dry—and then unfurling and “coming back to life” when it touches water.
This return to life has always been valued in spiritual symbolism—a bit like herbs in the monastic tradition of Hildegard of Bingen.
True vs. False Rose of Jericho
There are two botanical types:
- True Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica)
- False Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla)
The true variety originally comes from the deserts of the Middle East and curls up when it’s dry. The false variety is found in North and Central America and behaves in a similar way.
We’ll clear up the differences and common misunderstandings in this section—perfect if you want to buy or identify a Rose of Jericho.
How long does it take to open in water?
The Rose of Jericho usually takes a few hours to 1–2 days to fully open up and turn green after drying out. Just fill a bowl with water, place the plant in, and watch as it slowly opens up—a fascinating process that draws in a lot of people.
Tip: Change the water regularly and give the plant enough space so it can fully unfold.
Caring for the Rose of Jericho—Step by Step
Caring for it is super easy:
- Prepare water: Room temperature
- Place the plant: With the “roots” facing down
- Light: Bright, indirect daylight
- Change water: Every 24–48 hours
After a few days, the Rose of Jericho can dry out again and curl up—a natural cycle. It’s best to keep it in a glass or a decorative bowl.
If you want to use it long-term, alternating between days in water and days dry can feel like a natural rhythm.
Spiritual & Symbolic Meaning
The Rose of Jericho is often seen as a symbol of:
- Renewal & rebirth
- Hope & perseverance
- Water & life
This echoes lots of spiritual practices where plant rituals play a part—similar to the spiritual interpretation of nature’s powers in Hildegard’s teachings on Viriditas.
Many people place it in water for special occasions or use it in meditations and ritual cleansings.
Rose of Jericho—Frequently Asked Questions
Can you buy the Rose of Jericho?
Yes—you can get it as a decorative plant or collector’s item (just make sure to tell the true from the false one).
How often does it need water?
Usually, a soak in water and changing the water every now and then is enough—depending on temperature and humidity.
Is the Rose of Jericho poisonous?
No—it’s considered non-toxic, but you shouldn’t eat it.
Why does it curl up again?
That’s just part of its natural survival mechanism in dry conditions.
Rose of Jericho & the Fascination of the Plant World
Even though it’s not technically a classic herbal plant, the Rose of Jericho reminds us of our deep-rooted interest in plants and their stories. If you’re into the world of botanicals, you’ll find lots of fascinating connections in Hildegard’s herbal teachings—like with Hildegard’s fasting soup or Hildegard’s nutrition.
Conclusion: The Fascination of the Rose of Jericho
The Rose of Jericho is more than just a plant – it's a natural wonder, a symbol of life and renewal, and a decorative, meditative object. Thanks to its ability to switch between dryness and blooming, it inspires people all over the world.
Fitting Inspirations from Hildegard's Teachings
- Violet Cream by Hildegard – Care with a love for nature
- Fasting by Hildegard – Mindful breaks and inner renewal
- Bertram in Hildegard's Teachings – Traditional herbal recipes
- Nerve Cookies by Hildegard – Pastries from the monastery tradition
Check out our full range inspired by Hildegard's teachings too.
