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(Cryptanthus zonatus)
Earth Star (Cryptanthus zonatus)
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BotBln
CC BY-SA 3.0
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BotBln
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CC BY-SA 3.0
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Photo by: BotBln | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ | Uploader: BotBln | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Cryptanthus zonatus, commonly known as Earth Star, is a perennial herbaceous plant endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome in Brazil, particularly thriving in the understory of moist, shaded areas. It is a member of the Bromeliaceae family and is known for its rosette form and striking foliage. The leaves are typically a deep green with white stripes and can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length, forming a star-like pattern. Cryptanthus zonatus does not have a prominent flowering season, as its flowers are small and not particularly showy, nestled within the rosette.
The Earth Star is favored for its low maintenance and attractive, variegated foliage, which adds a tropical flair to indoor spaces. It is commonly used as a houseplant or in terrariums due to its adaptability to low-light conditions and its ability to tolerate a degree of neglect. In cultivation, it requires well-draining soil, consistent but moderate watering, and thrives in high humidity. It can be propagated easily through offsets. While generally pest-resistant, mealybugs and scale can sometimes be a problem. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Earth Star is favored for its low maintenance and attractive, variegated foliage, which adds a tropical flair to indoor spaces. It is commonly used as a houseplant or in terrariums due to its adaptability to low-light conditions and its ability to tolerate a degree of neglect. In cultivation, it requires well-draining soil, consistent but moderate watering, and thrives in high humidity. It can be propagated easily through offsets. While generally pest-resistant, mealybugs and scale can sometimes be a problem. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 0.5-1 feet
- Width: 1-1.3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant
Natural Habitat
Endemic to the understory of moist, shaded areas within the Atlantic Forest biome in Brazil
Other Names
Common Names: Starfish Plant
Scientific Names: , Cryptanthus zonatus, ? zonatus, Billbergia acaulis, Billbergia acaulis, Cryptanthus burle-marxii, Cryptanthus fosterianus, Cryptanthus isonatus, Cryptanthus isonatus var. fusus, Cryptanthus zonatus
GBIF Accepted Name: