Parastrephia lepidophylla, commonly known as "estrella de piedra" or "flower of stone," is a perennial plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the arid regions of South America, particularly found in the high-altitude desert areas of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
This unique plant is characterized by its compact, cushion-like growth habit. It forms tight rosettes of small, scale-like leaves that overlap each other, giving it a distinctive stone-like appearance. The leaves are densely covered with small, white hairs, which aid in reducing water loss and protect the plant from intense sunlight and cold temperatures.
Parastrephia lepidophylla is well-adapted to extreme arid conditions and is commonly observed in regions with minimal rainfall and poor soil. During extended dry periods, it undergoes desiccation, appearing as a dried-up, brown mound. However, it possesses an extraordinary survival mechanism where it can revive and regenerate when exposed to moisture, gradually transforming back into a green, living plant.
The plant's revival ability is possible due to its unique cellular structure and physiological adaptations. When water is available, the dried-up rosette absorbs moisture rapidly, allowing the live cells within the plant to rehydrate and resume normal metabolic activities.
Parastrephia lepidophylla has gained significant attention not only for its captivating appearance but also for its incredible adaptation to the challenging desert environment. It serves as a fascinating subject for scientific research and has become increasingly popular among gardeners and collectors due to its remarkable ability to revive from apparent death.
