Selaginella lepidophylla

Overview

Kew accepts Selaginella lepidophylla in Selaginellaceae and records its native range from southern New Mexico through western Texas and Central America. The current combination was published in 1840. Alternative genus combinations in its synonym list refer to the same selected taxonomic account.

The indexed hydro-responsive curling study describes a flat, spreading hydrated rosette and a compact nest-ball when dry. Older outer stems surround younger inner stems. During dehydration, outer stems bend toward circular rings more rapidly, while inner stems form spirals more slowly. The reported contrast concerns different stem tissues and hydration states, not a plant dying and being created anew.

Lebkuecher and Eickmeier tested whether restricting curling worsened bright-light damage during desiccation and rehydration. Their abstract reports effects on photosynthetic electron transport and recovery that depended on temperature, irradiance and treatment. Curling reduced some damage but did not provide complete protection in every condition. These laboratory findings explain a functional advantage without making the plant indestructible or prescribing one universal recovery time.

Origins & earliest records

Kew records the current combination in 1840; it is not a date for life’s origin.

Evidence & interpretation

Retained scientific and institutional passages.

Selected bibliography

Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.

1. 01

   Selaginella lepidophylla taxonomic account

   Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

2. 02

   Hydro-Responsive Curling of the Resurrection Plant Selaginella lepidophylla

3. 03

   Reduced photoinhibition with stem curling in the resurrection plant Selaginella lepidophylla

   Jefferson G. Lebkuecher and William G. Eickmeier

Family & connections

A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.

References

Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.

1. Botanical taxonomic databaseSelaginella lepidophylla taxonomic accountResearch access: 2026-10-12
2. Primary biomechanical study; retained indexed passagesHydro-Responsive Curling of the Resurrection Plant Selaginella lepidophyllaResearch access: 2026-10-12
3. Primary experiment; retained indexed abstractReduced photoinhibition with stem curlingResearch access: 2026-10-12

Image credits

Modern AI interpretation of spikemoss hydration states.

Modern AI interpretation of hydration states; fine leaf textures and stem arrangement are schematic.