Cryptanthus
Brightly striped Cryptanthus, or Earth Star, is a genus of terrestrial Bromeliad. Unlike other Bromeliads, it is not an epiphyte. There are more than 1200 varieties.
Most Popular Types
Cryptanthus bivittatus has two stripes down its leaves, often brightly colored.
Light
Cryptanthus cannot tolerate too much direct sunlight, however, without adequate sunlight the brilliant leaf colors will fade.
Temperatures
Cryptanthus thrives in a 60-85°F humid environment. It can survive temperatures above 100°F if the humidity is high.
Watering
Cryptanthus should be kept moist, but they should not be left in standing water.
Toxicity
Non-toxic to animals or humans.
Growth
Cryptanthus are monocarpic, blooming only once before developing offsets. Flowers are usually small and white.
Most cryptanthus grow close to the ground, approximately 3 inches in height. Others may grow as tall as 3 ft.
Origin
Rain forests of Brazil
Propagation
Propagate by offsets once the pups have a central cup, a sign that they are mature enough to be repotted.
Dormancy
Cryptanthus are winter dormant.
Cryptanthus bivittatus earth star
Cryptanthus earth stars are bromeliad that grow only in the ground, as apposed to others that are epiphytic.
Cryptanthus Bivittatus
Mature Cryptanthus Bivittatus, or earth stars, will form clumps that can be separated for propagation.
cryptanthus
cryptanthus
cryptanthus bivittatus (2)
Cryptanthus Bivittatus assortment
Workshops at Growing Hobby
Workshop schedule set for after work hours and on Sunday afternoons. We now have central heating and air to make you more comfortable while you shop and attend workshops.