Selaginella lepidophylla, commonly known as the resurrection plant, can survive for years without water by drying out almost completely and entering a dormant state.
Native to the Chihuahuan Desert, the plant curls into a ball and loses up to 95% of its water during periods of drought. When moisture returns, it can unfurl within hours, regain its green colour and resume normal growth.
Its remarkable survival ability comes from compounds that protect its cells during dehydration. During prolonged droughts, the plant can even detach from its roots and be carried by the wind in search of a more suitable environment. However, its resurrection ability is not unlimited and weakens over time.