Cryptanthus zonatus

Cryptanthus zonatus is a relatively small bromeliad (Bromeliaceae) with a diameter of about 20 to a maximum of 30 cm, native to the eastern coast of Brazil. It grows terrestrial (in the ground) in relatively dry savannah areas, rather than in the rainforest as an epiphyte like many other bromeliads. This is why Cryptanthus are often called “Earth stars”. The coarse, thick leaves serve as a water reserve.

C. zonatus has a dark brown to black base color with a very noticeable white band. For this reason it is also called zebra plant or zebra earth star.

After an inflorescence forms, the mother plant slowly dies, producing many small bumps that emerge on the sides.

This Bromeliad likes a fairly dry location with lots of direct sunlight. It needs a lot of direct light to form the black color of the leaves. A place near the south or west window with sun all day is ideal. In winter the leaves turn green again if they are not further illuminated with a powerful plant lamp. This species does not form a funnel that stores water and therefore does not need to be watered from above. It tolerates drying out better than excessive humidity and should be potted in a purely mineral substrate.

9 cm pot

Direct light.

Very little water.

From 20% to 60%

From 22° to 38°C