Selaginella lepidophylla is not to be confused with Anastatica hierochuntica a flowering plant in the mustard family, Brassicaceae, known as the true Rose of Jericho.

It deploys the physiological strategy of drying up and rolling inwards in the absence of water to form a ball, and can survive for up to several years, and lose up to 95% of its moisture content, without suffering damage.

The dry ball opens a few hours after being placed in contact with water, the parched leaves gradually resuming their green colour.

No matter how dried or damaged it becomes, because of the particular biological structure of its leaves the plant retains the ability to imbibe water and unfold itself, even many years after its death.

[7] The plant enters a dormant state in the absence of water, avoiding tissue and cell damage during drying by synthesizing trehalose, a crystallized sugar that acts as a compatible solute.

The trehalose produced by the plant acts in place of the evaporating water, so preventing the salts from causing damage and protecting against death due to an excess of salinity.

While the harsh environment of the Chihuahuan Desert may seem unforgiving, beneath the relentless sun and wind, unexpected alliances thrive.

[10] During its dormant state, S. lepidophylla releases organic compounds that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria, creating a protective layer around its roots.

In turn, these bacteria aid in nutrient acquisition and decomposition, enriching the surrounding soil and fostering a micro-oasis for other desert life.

If dehydration has been too rapid, or in the event of irregular alternation of drought and wet conditions, the plant has insufficient time to prepare properly to resist the water stress to which it is subjected.

Likewise, the ability to dry up and rehydrate may diminish, in which case, after dozens of cycles of alternate desiccation and regrowth, the plant dies.

[13] The plant's ability to survive extreme desiccation was noted by Spanish missionaries when they reached the New World, including the area that was to become the United States.

An infusion is made by steeping a tablespoon of dried material in hot water, and the resulting tea is used to treat colds and sore throat.