Cryptanthus zonatus, commonly known as Earth Star, is a low-growing bromeliad species prized for its striking, textured foliage. Its stiff, rosette-forming leaves are banded with alternating stripes of green and silver-grey, creating a dramatic contrast. The leaves are serrated along the edges, giving them a spiky appearance, but the plant itself remains relatively small, typically spreading to about 30cm in width.

Origins
Cryptanthus zonatus is native to Brazil, where, unusually for a bromeliad, it grows terrestrially across the shaded, humid forest floor.

Soil and Substrate
Our Simply Houseplant Potting Mix is a peat-free, free-draining blend that suits the shallow roots of terrestrial bromeliads.