Myrothamnus flabellifolius (Sond.) Welw.

Scientific Name and Shoot Height

Myrothamnus flabellifolius (Sond.) Welw. is a small, resinous plant that reaches a shoot height of 200–1,200 mm (8–47 in).

Growth Form and Root System

It grows in single clumps or as large colonies with extensive root systems.

Winter Dormancy Pattern

In winter, this plant loses all its leaves and stays bare until the first rainfall.

Hydration-Related Structural Changes

When hydrated, individuals are noticeably larger than when they are dehydrated, and can fold their leaves and stems to reduce light absorption.

Thylakoid Membrane Adaptation

Its thylakoid membranes stack on top of one another to lower photo-oxidative stress.

Cellular Response to Drying

When the plant dries out, mesophyll cells fold their cell walls, while sclerenchyma and vascular cells do not fold, providing structural support for the plant.

Rehydration Process

When water becomes available again, it is absorbed through the roots, as folded leaves cannot absorb water on their own.

Xylem Lipid Function

Lipids in the plant's xylem assist with water transport, preventing cavitation and supporting rehydration.

Geographic Distribution and Altitude Range

This species grows along mountain formations in central and southern Africa, typically at altitudes between 500 and 1,900 m (1,640–6,234 ft).

Habitat Climate Conditions

It grows in areas with high light intensity, extreme daily temperature changes between night and day, dry winters, and rainy summers, though the length of these seasonal periods can vary greatly between different regions.

Substrate Habitat

It can also be found in shallow rocky outcrops with soil approximately 15 cm (5.9 in) deep.

Root Adaptations to Rocky Habitat

Its roots expand to capture water held in the gaps between rocks, and erosion debris usually accumulates around its root system.

Common Name Origin

Due to its ability to produce flowers after months of dormancy, Myrothamnus flabellifolius is commonly called the resurrection plant.

Cultural Symbolism

In some African cultures, it is a symbol of hope.

Common Uses

Its leaves and stems are commonly used to make tea, spices, and lotions.

Traditional Medicinal Uses

In traditional African village medicine, it is used by healers to treat coughs, influenza, mastitis, backaches, kidney disorders, hemorrhoids, and abdominal pains.

Smoking Use

Smoking the plant is reported to alleviate chest pain and symptoms of depression.

Leaf Chewing Use

Chewing its leaves is used to manage halitosis and gingivitis.