ALTMAN PLANTS 9 cm Cryptanthus Bivittatus Red

Nicknamed earth stars, these wonderfully colorful bromeliads make great houseplants. Unlike many of their bromeliad brethren, earth stars (or starfish plants) are terrestrial bromeliads, meaning they live in the ground. Growing in a star-shaped rosette of tapering, pointed leaves low to the ground (aka earth), this variety blushes a lovely pink on its foliage. The leaves, with tiny teeth along wavy margins, also get their visual punch from their stripes. Native to leafy forest floors of Brazil, earth stars appreciate indirect light and medium to high humidity. Diffused or dappled light is your earth star’s best bud. Speaking of buds, Cryptanthus bivittatus only bloom once, delicate white flowers, but should that happen you can expect to have little pups ready to carry on for mama. To achieve deeper coloring, you can give the plant brighter light, but take care with direct sunlight, as too much can burn or bleach the leaves. Find a nice spot in your kitchen or even bathroom, or near a window but away from intense direct rays. Earth stars, with their appreciation of humidity, are striking candidates for a terrarium. Out in the garden, look for a prime spot under the canopy of a tree where it can enjoy dappled light or high shade. Growth varies, around 3 in. to 6 in. tall and wide. Provide bright, indirect light. Use a well-draining soil mix that retains some moisture. Water when the soil just begins to dry out. Hardy to Zone 10/35°F. Protect from frost.

• Perfect as a houseplant
• Loves filtered light and humidity
• Low maintenance
• Jazz up decor with this bromeliad
• Dazzling colors and textures