Species earth star
red-burgundy flowers with lime-yellow center

earth star

Cryptanthus bivittatus

The Earth Star (Cryptanthus bivittatus) is a type of terrestrial bromeliad native to the tropical regions of South America. An evergreen perennial, it features pointed green leaves, patterned with yellows, reds, and pinks. Small, pink flowers bloom among the beautifully patterned foliage, and the leaves form rosettes, allowing the plant to spread up to 16 inches across. Its name comes from its unusual behavior of spreading the leaves out in a star-like pattern, giving it an otherworldly appearance. Earth Stars prefer bright, indirect light and evenly moist, well-draining soil. For best results, keep plants in an area with consistent temperatures, avoiding sudden changes.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

11

Flowers:

Showy, White Flowers In Summer

Sun:

part shade,part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,pink,tan,white

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

watering

Earth stars should be watered thoroughly once a week to keep the soil evenly moist. Ensure that the soil is not too wet or too dry. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out somewhat between watering sessions. If the soil is allowed to remain too wet, the roots will start to rot. Water the plant with lukewarm water for best results.

sunlight

Earth Star (Cryptanthus bivittatus) is a low-light tolerant plant that does best in bright, indirect sunlight. Try to provide at least 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight per day. Sunlight should be diffused, whether through sheer curtains or positioning the plants further away from the source of light. During the winter months, supplementing with artificial light is recommended to ensure that the plant is getting enough light for optimal health.

pruning

Earth Star (Cryptanthus bivittatus) should be pruned once a year in early spring to maintain its bushy habit. When pruning, about 1/3 of the oldest leaves should be removed to promote healthy new growth. Be sure not to over-prune the plant, as this can inhibit healthy regrowth. To promote blooms, stems should be cut back after flowering. Dead leaves that have turned yellow or brown can be removed during the pruning process.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Cryptanthus bivittatus typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Cryptanthus bivittatus typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Cryptanthus bivittatus typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Cryptanthus bivittatus typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map