Cryptanthus

Scientific name

Cryptanthus spp.
(often called "Starry Bromeliad" or "Earth Star")

General description

Cryptanthus are small, terrestrial bromeliads with leaves arranged in a flat, star-shaped rosette. Their leaves can be striped, wavy, or serrated, with colors ranging from green to pink, red, brown, or silver. Their compact size and highly decorative patterns make them perfect plants for shelves, terrariums, or collections of unusual plants.

Origin

Native to Brazil, where they grow on the ground in hot, humid tropical forests.

Interview

• Light : bright indirect light; colors are more intense in bright light.

• Watering : keep the substrate slightly moist but never soggy; avoid stagnant water.

• Humidity : moderate to high; prefers a humid and stable atmosphere.

• Temperature : between 18 and 27 °C; sensitive to cold.

• Substrate : light, airy and draining mix, ideal for bromeliads or potting soil with sand/perlite.

Specific advice

• Do not leave water in the heart like other bromeliads: Cryptanthus are terrestrial.

• Ideal for use in a terrarium or in an environment protected from dry air.

• The colors change depending on the light — that's normal.

• This plant is non-toxic to humans and animals.