Cryptanthus bivittatus
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.
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