Cryptanthus bromeliads, more commonly known as earth stars due to rosette -shaped
arrangement of the leaves and their low growth habit, are beautiful and incredibly varied
plants native to Brazil. There are over 1,200 types of bromeliads within the Cryptanthus genus, with a great variety of foliage. Their colors range from dark green to bright pink to red, and they can be banded, spotted, solid, or virtually any other
pattern. Like most bromeliads, Cryptanthus species are mostly grown for their interesting leaves, but they also produce small but beautiful white or pink blooms. The plants bloom
only once, however, before the plant produces offsets (pups) and then dies. The life cyle of these plants is about three years from pup to flowering plant.
Light
Bright indirect light year
Bright indirect
Watering
Cryptanthus thrive in tropical conditions, and you should make efforts to keep them
moist. Make sure, however, not to rest them in standing water. A moderately damp
environment is moisture enough for these plants. But bromeliads are surprisingly
tolerant of short periods of drought
Feeding
Dilute an all purpose liquid plant food to one-half strength and use it to spray the leaves monthly from spring to fall. We recommend Espoma Organic Indoor Houseplant Food.
Flower
Though the plant blooms only once in its lifetime, its propensity to produce offsets means it is possible to keep flowers blooming year-round. Despite the reputation of bromeliads for being difficult to grow, Cryptanthus plants are a very feasible option for any gardener
who wishes to enjoy their lovely and diverse foliage. Cryptanthus bromeliads bloom only once before dying, but the offset “pups” can be repotted to create an ongoing supply of plants.
Size
Up to 2 feet
Temperature
70-80°F
Humidity
Moderate to High
Care
Easy
Never use any type of oil/leaf shine to clean the leaves or control pests, since oil can
interfere with the work of the leaf scales.
