Earth star (Cryptanthus zonatus)

Earth star

Earth star is a perennial herb that needs humidity and indirect lighting to achieve its central blooms. They are regular fixtures in office environments due to their bright, wavy, marine-like appearance that has earned them the name "Zebra plants."

Scientific classification

Species

Earth star (Cryptanthus zonatus)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Brown

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Earth star

Quickly Identify Earth star

Rosette of tooth-edged leaves with wavy texture and whitish zebra-like bands.

Sturdy leaves hinting at familial ties to pineapple, spanning 6 inches (15 cm) in width.

Sessile, white flowers emerge from center in terminal, stemless corymb inflorescence.

Leaves with silver-gray to cream horizontal bands, pinkish hue, dark purple upper surface.

Distinctive 8-12 inch (20-30 cm) leaves with silver-white undersides and serrate margins.

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Care Guide for Earth star

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Earth star originates from Brazilian rainforests, thriving in high humidity and moist soil. While moderately drought-tolerant, it prefers consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering. As an indoor plant, earth star flourishes in humid areas, like well-lit bathrooms, benefiting from ambient moisture and evaporation.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, earth star requires balanced fertilizers. Apply half-strength liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season, reducing to bi-monthly in winter. Avoid direct contact with foliage, ensuring even soil distribution to enhance foliage color and vigor while preventing root burn.

Pruning: Earth star features striking star-shaped rosettes and thrives with early spring pruning. Trim dead leaves and offshoots to foster growth, enhance air circulation, and improve vitality. Use clean, sharp tools and consider the growth cycle for optimal pruning results.

Propagation: Earth star is a bromeliad that can be propagated by division, utilizing its offsets. Young plants should be carefully separated while preserving roots and replanted in well-draining soil. They thrive in indirect light and humidity, requiring consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Repotting: Repot earth star every 2-3 years in spring to support growth. Use a shallow pot with well-draining soil and provide indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging to promote healthy recovery for this star-shaped bromeliad.

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Images of Earth star

Quickly Identify Earth star

Care Guide for Earth star

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