Cryptanthus
Cryptanthus, often referred to as “Earth Stars,” are striking, low-maintenance bromeliads that make great houseplants. Here’s how to care for them:
Light:
• Bright, indirect light is ideal. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause their leaves to scorch.
• Avoid placing them in low light for extended periods, as it can result in poor growth.
2. Watering:
• Watering from the center of the rosette (where the leaves form a cup) is the most important. The plant naturally collects water there in its native environment.
• Keep the central “cup” filled with water, but make sure it doesn’t stay stagnant for too long to avoid rot.
• Water the soil lightly when it feels dry, but avoid overwatering. Let the top of the soil dry between watering’s.
• Humidity is important for Cryptanthus, so keep the surrounding air moist, especially in dry indoor environments. A humidity level of 50-60% is ideal.
3. Temperature:
• Cryptanthus prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). They don’t tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
4. Soil:
• Use a well-draining mix. A standard potting mix with added sand or perlite for drainage works well.
• Some people prefer a bromeliad mix or orchid mix, which allows for more air circulation to the roots.
Note, we ship out on Tuesday’s to ensure plants don’t sit at the post office all weekend!
Cryptanthus, often referred to as “Earth Stars,” are striking, low-maintenance bromeliads that make great houseplants. Here’s how to care for them:
Light:
• Bright, indirect light is ideal. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause their leaves to scorch.
• Avoid placing them in low light for extended periods, as it can result in poor growth.
2. Watering:
• Watering from the center of the rosette (where the leaves form a cup) is the most important. The plant naturally collects water there in its native environment.
• Keep the central “cup” filled with water, but make sure it doesn’t stay stagnant for too long to avoid rot.
• Water the soil lightly when it feels dry, but avoid overwatering. Let the top of the soil dry between watering’s.
• Humidity is important for Cryptanthus, so keep the surrounding air moist, especially in dry indoor environments. A humidity level of 50-60% is ideal.
3. Temperature:
• Cryptanthus prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). They don’t tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
4. Soil:
• Use a well-draining mix. A standard potting mix with added sand or perlite for drainage works well.
• Some people prefer a bromeliad mix or orchid mix, which allows for more air circulation to the roots.
Note, we ship out on Tuesday’s to ensure plants don’t sit at the post office all weekend!
Cryptanthus, often referred to as “Earth Stars,” are striking, low-maintenance bromeliads that make great houseplants. Here’s how to care for them:
Light:
• Bright, indirect light is ideal. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause their leaves to scorch.
• Avoid placing them in low light for extended periods, as it can result in poor growth.
2. Watering:
• Watering from the center of the rosette (where the leaves form a cup) is the most important. The plant naturally collects water there in its native environment.
• Keep the central “cup” filled with water, but make sure it doesn’t stay stagnant for too long to avoid rot.
• Water the soil lightly when it feels dry, but avoid overwatering. Let the top of the soil dry between watering’s.
• Humidity is important for Cryptanthus, so keep the surrounding air moist, especially in dry indoor environments. A humidity level of 50-60% is ideal.
3. Temperature:
• Cryptanthus prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). They don’t tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
4. Soil:
• Use a well-draining mix. A standard potting mix with added sand or perlite for drainage works well.
• Some people prefer a bromeliad mix or orchid mix, which allows for more air circulation to the roots.
Note, we ship out on Tuesday’s to ensure plants don’t sit at the post office all weekend!