🌟 Cryptanthus acaulis Care Sheet
Overview
Botanical name: Cryptanthus acaulis
Common name: Earth Star 🌟
Type: Terrestrial bromeliad 🌿
Size: Compact — 10–30 cm across 📏
Highlight: Stunning rosette with textured, colorful foliage 💚💖
☀️ Light
Best: Bright, indirect light 🌤️
Okay: Medium light indoors 🏠
Avoid: Direct, harsh sun – can bleach or burn leaves 🔥
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: 18–28°C 🌡️
Humidity: 50%+ preferred 💦
Perfect for terrariums or high-humidity rooms 🌫️
💧 Watering
Keep soil slightly moist, but never soggy 🚫💧
Water into the soil — unlike other bromeliads, Cryptanthus prefers moist roots, not water-filled cups 🌱
Mist occasionally to maintain humidity 🌫️
🪴 Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining, airy mix:
Orchid bark + peat or coco coir + perlite works perfectly 🌱
Small, shallow pots work best 🪴
🍽️ Feeding
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at ¼ strength 🌱
Stop feeding in winter ❄️
🌱 Propagation
Produces “pups” (baby plants) around the mother rosette 🍼
Separate pups when they’re at least 1/3 the size of the parent ✂️
⚠️ Common Issues
Problem 😬
Cause ❓
Fix 🛠️
Pale leaves 😕
Too little light
Move to brighter indirect light
Rotting base ⚠️
Overwatering
Let soil dry slightly between waterings
Crispy edges 🔥
Air too dry
Increase humidity with misting or a tray
🏡 Display Tips
Perfect for terrariums, dish gardens, or small table displays 🌟
Mix with other low-growing plants for a miniature jungle vibe 🌴
Great for bright bathrooms or kitchens 🚿