AquaZia Cryptanthus bromeliad (Earth Star)

Cryptanthus are easy to grow and make attractive houseplants. Also called the Earth Star plant, for its white star-shaped blooms, these members of the bromeliad family are native to the forests of Brazil. There is one striking difference between Cryptanthus Earth Star and their bromeliad brethren. The Earth Star plant likes to sink its roots into soil while many bromeliads prefer growing on trees, rocks, and cliff faces.
Cryptanthus plants prefer a well-draining, but moist growing medium. A rich, organic soil works well for most varieties, but gardeners can also use a mix of sand, peat, and perlite. Most varieties remain small and only require a 4- to 6-inch (10-15 cm.) pot. Planter size for larger types of Cryptanthus bromeliads can be determined by matching foliage size to pot width.

Place your potted Earth Star where it can receive levels of light and humidity similar to its native environment on the Brazilian rainforest floor – bright but not direct. They prefer temps around 60 to 85 degrees F. (15-30 C.). A bright spot in the bathroom or kitchen works well for most varieties. Although these bromeliads are tolerant of dry conditions, it’s best to keep the soil evenly moist.