Yunnan’s ‘Resurrection Plant’ Defies Death Like a Sci-Fi Superhero

Meet nature’s real-life phoenix – Selaginella pulvinata, the “grass with nine lives” thriving in southwest China’s Yunnan Province. This botanical Houdini plays dead like a pro, curling into a crisp when drought strikes, only to spring back to emerald green days later with just a splash of water. Talk about #LifeGoals!

Chinese ancestors revered this resurrection plant for its death-defying tricks, comparing it to the mythological fenghuang (phoenix). Scientists call it a “desiccation-tolerant” species – but we’re dubbing it Earth’s original survival influencer.

Part of the Journeys in Nature: Southern Yunling Mountains documentary series, this episode showcases Yunnan’s Cangshan Mountain and Yuanjiang River Valley – biodiversity hotspots where 60-million-year-old tree species rub branches with savanna plants. From winged fruits to giant snails, this region’s wildlife roster reads like a fantasy novel.

The series (now on Episode 9!) reveals why this area is called “the cradle of immortal grass.” Fun fact: Some plants here have been “dying” and reviving for decades – basically the Plant Kingdom’s version of your favorite TV character’s plot armor.

Reference(s):

Southern Yunling Mountains Series Ep. 9: Grass with nine lives

cgtn.com