Cryptanthus bivittatus, the Earth Star, is a small, terrestrial bromeliad that hugs the ground in flat, star-shaped rosettes of wavy-edged leaves boldly striped in green, cream, pink and red. Unlike most bromeliads it grows in soil rather than holding water in a cup, and its colours intensify in bright light. Compact and slow-growing, it is perfect for terrariums, dish gardens, shallow pots and shaded rockeries. The tiny white flowers are insignificant; the foliage is the whole show. It is easy-going, pet-safe and readily produces pups around its base.
Specifications
| Family |
Bromeliaceae |
| Native region |
Brazil |
| Mature height |
8-15 cm |
| Mature spread |
15-30 cm |
| Growth rate |
Slow |
| Foliage |
Wavy star rosette striped pink, red, green |
| Flower colour |
Small white flowers (insignificant) |
| Flower season |
Occasional, minor |
| Climate zone |
Tropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright indirect light deepens colour; no harsh sun. |
| Watering |
Keep soil lightly moist; no central cup to fill. |
| Soil / mix |
Light, well-draining, slightly acidic mix. |
| Temperature |
18-30C; keep above 13C. |
| Humidity |
Moderate to high; ideal for terrariums. |
| Fertilizer |
Very dilute feed occasionally in growth. |
| Pruning |
Remove dry or damaged outer leaves. |
| Repotting |
Shallow pot; repot only when crowded. |
| Propagation |
Separate offsets from base. |
| Pests & problems |
Mealybugs, scale; treat with neem. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic to pets and humans. |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
Ideal for terrariums, dish gardens, fairy gardens and as a colourful groundcover in shaded tropical beds and shallow pots.
Growing tips
In India grow it in bright shade for the richest pink-and-red striping and use a free-draining mix since, unlike cup bromeliads, it dislikes waterlogged soil; perfect for humid terrariums in dry climates.