Scientific name: Selaginella tamariscina
Common names: Resurrection plant, Longevity grass
Family: Selaginellaceae (Clubmoss family)
This small, perennial plant has a thick, upright main stem that typically reaches about 25 cm in height. The upper branches form a rosette-like structure, with slender roots developing at the nodes, forming dense clusters. Its leaves are small and arranged in four rows—two outer rows are called lateral or ventral leaves, usually larger and wider, while the inner two rows are the middle or dorsal leaves.
Spores are produced on the upper parts of the leaves, forming spore-bearing structures known as strobili. These can vary greatly in size, from just 5–10 cm to as long as 20 meters when the stems grow out. The sporangia are kidney-shaped or obovate, stalked, and located between the ligule and the leaf base. Megasporangia are generally larger, and each contains one megaspore mother cell that divides into four megaspores. In contrast, only a portion of microsporangium mother cells produce microspores.
Morphological Characteristics:
Selaginella tamariscina is widely found across China, as well as in North Korea and Japan. It thrives in dry rock crevices below 1,200 meters above sea level, exhibiting exceptional drought tolerance. When dry, its branches and leaves curl tightly, resembling a clenched fist, but they quickly unfurl and regain their green color when watered.
This plant is also highly resistant to cold and can survive winter temperatures as low as 0°C. It prefers a shaded environment with 70–80% humidity throughout the year.
There are approximately 700 species of Selaginella worldwide, predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions. In China alone, around 50 species have been identified.
Popular Cultivated Varieties:
One commonly cultivated variety is Selaginella involvens, also known as Gold Cypress or Scorpion Chicken Tail. Native to southern China, it grows under mountain forests at elevations up to 1,500 meters. Its stems are green, slender, and upright, with spiral-arranged leaves on the main stem that are broadly ovate. The lateral branches have obliquely ovate-lanceolate leaves with pointed tips and prominent midribs. The plant’s elegant foliage makes it ideal for small potted arrangements.
Another popular species is Selaginella moellendorfii, which features an upright stem, blue-green leaves, and white margins along the edges.
Ornamental Use:
Due to its compact and unique growth habit, Selaginella is often used in small pots or water culture. It is a perfect addition to desks, shelves, or other indoor spaces, offering a delicate and charming presence. Its resilience and aesthetic appeal make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
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