The “Dinosaur Plant,” scientifically known as Selaginella lepidophylla, is a true marvel of the plant kingdom. Often referred to as a “resurrection plant,” it possesses the extraordinary ability to curl into a tight ball and appear lifeless when deprived of water, only to unfurl and regain its vibrant green hue once rehydrated. This ancient-looking plant captures the imagination of many, and naturally, enthusiasts often wonder how to propagate such a unique specimen. Unlike many common houseplants that readily root from cuttings, the Dinosaur Plant presents a distinct challenge, requiring a deeper understanding of its biology. This article will delve into the methods, both practical and ambitious, for propagating this fascinating living relic, helping you expand your collection of these incredible plants.
Understanding the dinosaur plant’s unique biology
The Dinosaur Plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, isn’t a true fern but belongs to a group known as spike mosses, which are ancient vascular plants. Its unique ability to “resurrect” stems from specialized adaptations that allow it to survive extreme desiccation in its native desert environments. When dry, its cells lose water, causing the plant to contract. Upon rehydration, water quickly enters the cells, expanding them and causing the plant to unfurl. This remarkable characteristic also influences its propagation methods.
Unlike many flowering plants that can be propagated vegetatively from stem cuttings, Selaginella lepidophylla typically does not root from a simple cut stem. Its structure and physiological processes are geared towards survival in harsh conditions rather than rapid vegetative expansion through adventitious roots from detached fragments. This means we must look to its natural reproductive strategies – namely, division and, more complexly, spore propagation – to successfully multiply these captivating plants.
Propagating by division: a practical approach
For most home growers, propagating a Dinosaur Plant by division is the most practical and successful method, provided the parent plant is mature and robust enough. This technique relies on the plant having developed multiple growth points or forming a larger clump over time. Patience is key, as these plants are not fast growers, and a healthy specimen ready for division might take several years to develop.
To propagate by division:
- Assess the parent plant: Ensure your Dinosaur Plant is well-established, has a substantial root ball, and ideally shows signs of multiple, distinct rosettes or sections.
- Hydrate thoroughly: Before attempting division, fully hydrate the plant for 24-48 hours. This makes the plant pliable and easier to handle without causing undue stress or breakage.
- Gently separate: Carefully remove the plant from its container or growing area. Gently tease apart the root ball and fronds into smaller sections. Aim for divisions that each have a healthy cluster of roots and at least a few fronds. Sometimes, the plant will naturally separate into smaller units, especially if it has grown into a dense mat.
- Repot immediately: Plant each new division into its own pot filled with a well-draining substrate, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand. Ensure the plant is nestled securely but not buried too deep.
- Provide consistent moisture: For the first few weeks after division, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. High humidity is also beneficial to help the newly divided plants establish without curling up from stress.
While division is less aggressive than trying to root cuttings, it still places stress on the plant, so providing optimal conditions post-division is crucial for success.
The elusive art of spore propagation
Propagating Selaginella lepidophylla from spores is a challenging endeavor, largely reserved for dedicated enthusiasts or botanical institutions. Unlike seed propagation, which involves a contained embryo, spores are microscopic reproductive cells that require very specific environmental conditions to germinate and develop into a new plant. This process mimics its natural reproduction in the wild but is notoriously difficult to replicate successfully in a home setting.
Dinosaur Plants produce spores in specialized structures called sporophylls, often located at the tips of their fronds. To attempt spore propagation:
- Collect spores: Allow a mature plant to dry out and then rehydrate it. As it rehydrates, you might observe tiny, dust-like particles (spores) released from the fronds. You can gently tap a mature, hydrated plant over a dark piece of paper to collect any viable spores.
- Prepare a sterile medium: Use a sterile, fine-grained substrate such as peat moss or a peat/perlite mix. Moisten it thoroughly and place it in a sterile container with a clear lid or plastic wrap to create a terrarium-like environment.
- Sow spores: Lightly sprinkle the collected spores over the surface of the sterile medium. Do not bury them.
- Provide optimal conditions: Maintain extremely high humidity (nearly 100%), consistent moisture, and indirect light. A temperature range of 68-75°F (20-24°C) is ideal.
- Patience, patience, patience: Spore germination can take weeks to months, and the resulting plantlets (prothalli, then sporophytes) are tiny and fragile. The success rate is often very low, making this method more of an experimental endeavor than a reliable propagation technique for most hobbyists.
Due to the difficulty, division remains the more recommended path for home propagation.
Essential care for successful establishment
Regardless of whether you propagate by division or, against the odds, through spores, the post-propagation care is paramount for the establishment of your new Dinosaur Plants. These plants thrive under conditions that mimic their natural, albeit extreme, habitats when active. Consistent attention to specific environmental factors will ensure their healthy growth and ability to “resurrect” when needed.
Here’s a summary of key environmental parameters:
| Factor | Optimal Conditions | Notes for Propagation |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light | Avoid direct sun, especially for new divisions/sporelings. |
| Humidity | High (60-80%+) | Crucial for establishment; consider a cloche or terrarium. |
| Watering | Thoroughly, then allow to dry (cycle) | Keep consistently moist initially for divisions; never let spore medium dry out. |
| Temperature | 65-85°F (18-29°C) | Avoid extreme fluctuations; warmer temperatures aid growth. |
| Soil | Well-draining, slightly acidic | Peat-based mix with perlite/sand is ideal for moisture retention & drainage. |
Ensure that newly propagated plants are protected from drafts and kept in a stable environment. While they are known for their resilience, young plants are more vulnerable. Fertilization should be minimal, if at all, for new divisions, as their focus should be on root establishment. Once established, a very diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during active growth. Monitoring for signs of stress, such as excessive curling or browning, and adjusting care promptly will lead to greater success in nurturing your newly propagated Dinosaur Plants.
Propagating the Dinosaur Plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, offers a rewarding challenge for any plant enthusiast. While its unique biology makes traditional methods ineffective, understanding its natural reproductive strategies allows for successful multiplication through division and, for the truly dedicated, spore propagation. Division, requiring a mature parent plant, is the most accessible method, offering a tangible way to expand your collection by carefully separating established clumps. Spore propagation, while fascinating and biologically accurate, demands extreme patience, sterile conditions, and precise environmental control, often yielding unpredictable results for the average grower.
Ultimately, regardless of the method chosen, success hinges on meticulous post-propagation care. Providing consistently high humidity, bright indirect light, appropriate watering cycles, and a well-draining substrate are critical for the establishment and long-term health of these ancient wonders. Embarking on the journey of Dinosaur Plant propagation is not just about creating new plants; it’s an opportunity to connect with one of nature’s most extraordinary survivors. With patience, observation, and adherence to their specific needs, you can enjoy the satisfaction of seeing new life unfurl from these remarkable living fossils in your own home.
Image by: Suri Huang