Cryptanthus bivittatus

Comments:0 Comments

Regel (Earth Star)

Taxonomy

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Tracheophytes
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Monocots
  • Order: Poales
  • Family: Bromeliaceae
  • Genus: Cryptanthus
  • Species: Cryptanthus bivittatus

Common Names by Region

  • Global: Earth Star
  • Latin America: Estrella de Tierra
  • Southeast Asia: Tanaman Bintang Tanah

Description

  • Growth Habit: Compact, low-growing, rosette-forming bromeliad.
  • Size: Typically 6–8 inches wide and 3–6 inches tall.
  • Leaves: Lance-shaped, wavy-edged leaves with striped patterns in shades of pink, red, green, and cream.
  • Flowers: Small, tubular white flowers emerge at the plant’s center. Flowers are non-fragrant and relatively insignificant compared to the foliage.

Known Range

  • Native Range: Southeastern Brazil.
  • Cultivated Range: Widely grown indoors and in tropical and subtropical gardens globally.

Care Requirements

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; direct sunlight may scorch leaves. Can tolerate low light but with reduced vibrancy.
  • Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist; allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
  • Soil: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
  • Humidity: Thrives in high humidity (60% or above); benefits from regular misting or a humidity tray.
  • Temperature: Optimal range is 60–80°F (15–27°C); sensitive to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
  • Propagation: Offsets (pups) that form around the base of the mother plant can be separated and replanted once they reach 1/3 the size of the parent.
  • Common Pests/Diseases: Susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.

Additional Notes

  • Special Features: Eye-catching, colorful foliage makes it a popular ornamental houseplant. Also prized for its air-purifying qualities.
  • Maintenance Level: Low to moderate; requires minimal fertilization and occasional pruning of dead leaves or spent flowers.
Spread the love

Categories:

Leave a Reply