Boea hygrometrica (Boea hygrometrica)

Also known as: Resurrection Plant, Chinese Resurrection Plant

The resurrection plant, such as *Selaginella lepidophylla*, is remarkable for its ability to endure severe dehydration. It can survive without water for extended periods, appearing dead and brittle. Upon rehydration, it astonishingly revives and turns green again.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Boea hygrometrica

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10-20 cm

Spread

15-30 cm

Leaf Color

Green to grey-green

Flower Size

0.5-1 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Boea hygrometrica

Quickly Identify Boea hygrometrica

This plant can be identified by its hairy leaves and small, violet-blue flowers. A notable feature is its ability to survive desiccation and rapidly recover when rehydrated.

Scientific Classification of Boea hygrometrica

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

African violet

Genus

Boea

Species

Boea hygrometrica

Planting and Growing of Boea hygrometrica

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Boea hygrometrica?

When watering Boea hygrometrica, aim for a thorough soaking, allowing water to reach the plant's roots without leaving the soil waterlogged. The plant typically thrives when watered with about 100 ml each time, ensuring moisture reaches its deeper roots without drowning them.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Boea hygrometrica? ›

What should I do if my Boea hygrometrica is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Boea hygrometrica? ›

How to save an overwatered Boea hygrometrica? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Boea hygrometrica?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours

Partial sun or full shade. The ideal light conditions engage the plant's photosynthetic capabilities efficiently, leading to robust growth and vibrant foliage. Maintaining the right light conditions boosts its overall health and longevity.

How much sunlight does Boea hygrometrica need? ›

What are the best locations indoors for this plant? ›

Solution for inadequate lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Boea hygrometrica?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Boea hygrometrica, commonly known as the resurrection plant, is between 65°F and 75°F. This range replicates their natural environment, where stable temperatures support consistent hydration levels and optimal photosynthetic activity. Keeping the plant within this range will ensure healthy growth and vibrant leaf coloration.

What Soil is Best for Boea hygrometrica?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Boea hygrometrica thrives in well-drained soils to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots. A well-drained soil structure ensures that excess water flows away, protecting the plant from root rot and providing a healthy growing environment. Maintaining consistent soil moisture is crucial for Boea hygrometrica, as it mimics its natural habitat. Soils with moisture retentive properties ensure that the plant receives an adequate water supply, reducing the need for frequent watering. A nutrient-rich soil provides essential nutrients that support the growth and vibrant foliage of Boea hygrometrica. By enriching the soil with organic matter, gardeners can enhance its fertility and ensure robust growth.

How to Fertilize Boea hygrometrica?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Boea hygrometrica, it's essential to apply the right amount of fertilizer to ensure optimal growth. Typically, a diluted liquid fertilizer solution at half the recommended strength, about 10 mL per liter of water, should suffice during the growing season.

How to Prune Boea hygrometrica?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin your pruning by identifying and removing any dead or discolored leaves. Snip them carefully close to the base, making sure not to damage the healthy surrounding tissue. This encourages better air circulation and reduces the risk of fungal problems. After removing the dead parts, focus on shaping the plant. Trim any excessively long stems to maintain a bushy and compact form. This kind of shaping can enhance the plant's aesthetic appeal and ensure even sunlight distribution. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Boea hygrometrica plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring, Summer

Collect seeds from mature Boea hygrometrica plants and soak them in warm water for a few hours to help soften the seed coat and improve germination rates.

Using sterile scissors, take 4-6 inches cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems. Remove any leaves from the lower part of the cutting to prevent rot.

Carefully separate clumps of the plant so that each section has at least one robust shoot and a portion of the root mass, helping maintain plant vigor and health.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Boea hygrometrica plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Boea hygrometrica when its roots begin to outgrow the current pot, typically indicated by roots showing at the drainage holes or the plant becoming top-heavy. Spring and summer are ideal because the plant is actively growing, allowing it to recover swiftly from any transplant shock.

Choose a pot that is about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This ensures there is enough room for growth without causing excessive water retention. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which could harm the roots by preventing adequate air circulation.

Select a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture but doesn't stay soggy. This type of soil facilitates root breathing and prevents root rot. A blend with added perlite or sand is beneficial, providing the perfect balance for optimal growth and hydration.