This information was supplied by
the Cryptanthus Society - for further information on the Cryptanthus Society,
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What is a Cryptanthus?
Named from the Greek krypte, "hidden," and anthos, "flower,"
these plants, members of the family Bromeliaceae, are related to
the pineapple. Their common name, 'Earth Stars,' came naturally from the
way their low, spreading rosettes hug the ground "like fallen stars." The
variability of shapes, colours, and patterns, plus their adaptability to
a wide range of growing conditions, make Cryptanthus a favourite of plant
lovers around the world.
Potting
Cryptanthus in their natural habitat are true terrestrials ( Growing
in the earth ). A few varieties are saxicolous ( growing in soil pockets
among rocks ), but none have ever been observed growing as epiphytes (
growing on other plants, but receiving nourishment from the air). Cryptanthus
should always be growing as potted plants.
The growing medium should be a loose, porous mixture. There are many
good mixes: commercial potting soils, African Violet mix, soils mixes or
a mixture of peat and sand with perlite. Regardless of the mix chosen,
it must be kept damp for best growth. It should never be allowed to totally
dry out. Plastic pots help conserve moisture. Successful growers have used
capillary matting, wick watering, misting systems as well as the old-fashioned
method of watching the plant and giving it a drink when needed.
Cryptanthus should not be under-potted. The develop root systems at
least equal to the size of the plant - a five or six inch pot will allow
the root system plenty of room to develop.
Light
In their native habitat of Brazil, Cryptanthus can be found growing
in a wide variety of conditions; sunny, shady, moist, dry, in forests,
and at the ocean side. There is a Cryptanthus variety to fit any light
condition. C. beukerii and it's hybrids like to be shaded, moist
and humid. They are excellent for terrariums. Species such as C. bahianus
sp 'Cascade', and C. warasii will tolerate full sun, but the
plants grow better in diffused light. Too much light causes bleaching,
sunburn, or gives a leathery stressed look to the plants. Bright, diffused
light is necessary to bring out maximum colour in most Cryptanthus.
Lack of enough light will result in dull uninteresting foliage. "Greening"
of a usually colorful Cryptanthus, or weak unbalanced growth, is usually
caused by insufficient light, proper lighting will bring out the best in
Cryptanthus.
Acclimate plants to grow in as much light as possible. The light source
may be natural ( in the greenhouse, outside with strong, but filtered light,
in a windows garden ) or artificial ( "grow lights" or plant carts ). Cryptanthus
grow equally well with either.. The colours intensify under fluorescent
light, which make Cryptanthus an excellent choice for office decorating.
Whatever the light source, be sure plants receive even lighting. If
the light comes from only one side ( as in a window garden, be sure to
turn the plants regularly to promote balanced growth.
Temperature
Cryptanthus prefer the same temperatures as their growers.. Optimum
growth occurs in a range between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit ( 16 - 29
degrees Celsius ). However, Cryptanthus will thrive in less than optimum
conditions. Outdoor gardeners will be please to learn that most Cryptanthus
can withstand temperatures just above freezing and some varieties will
survive winter outside if they are heavily mulched and the root zone
does not freeze. If one wishes to leave plants outdoors over the winter,
they should be "hardened off" in the fall by cutting back on the amount
of water they receive. Depending on how long the temperatures remain below
freezing, leaf damage may be severe, but the mulch protects the root zone
and spring brings renewed growth. On the other extreme, Cryptanthus are
very tolerant of high temperatures, even above 100 degrees ( 38 degrees
C ) as long as their is adequate humidity and potting mix is not allowed
to dry out. Again they should be protected from the scorching effects of
direct sunlight.
In temperate climates, Cryptanthus grow easily and well outdoors, making
beautiful and exotic bedding plants or ground cover. In colder climates,
one might consider growing potted Cryptanthus outside during the warmer
months. The pots can be sunk into the outdoor garden for the summer, and
then easily removed to a safe winter inside, beautifying your home or greenhouse.
Cryptanthus grow just as well, or even better in the year-round controlled
environment of an indoor garden.
Humidity
Many Cryptanthus varieties enjoy high humidity which may be increased
in the home or office with the use of humidifiers, frequent misting, capillary
matting, by placing the pots over water, or grouping plants together. Cryptanthus
make wonderful accent plants in well-lit bathrooms or above the kitchen
sink where the humidity is generally high.
Fertilising
Fertiliser is not necessary for Cryptanthus to show off their dazzling
colors, but it is necessary for maximum growth. A timed release balanced
( 14-14-14, 10-10-10) fertillizer combined in the potting mix gives excellent
results. Other types of fertillizer such as African Violet, Orchid or organic,
used in a diluted form with each watering, work equally well. Like people,
Cryptanthus require proper nutrition.
Blooming
Although the name Cryptanthus means hidden flower, many varieties flatten,
at maturity to reveal a bouquet of delicate flowers. Some varieties maintain
an upright growth with the flowers remaining somewhat hidden, while others
actually bloom on a scape ( stem ). Some varieties display one flower at
a time; others exhibit an entire cluster at one show. As different species
and cultivars bloom at different times of the year, it is possible to have
different varieties in bloom the year around. They are reliable bloomers
- there is no need to force bloom Crypanthus.
Offsets or Pups
Each Cryptanthus plant blooms only once in its lifetime. But after it
blooms, it will reward you with new plants! Beginning before or immediately
after blooming, Cryptanthus will produce offsets, or pups - new plants
- which form from the axils, from woody solons ( as with C. bahianus),
or from the base of the parent plant. One will have the beginning of generations
of plants to keep or share with friends.
Offsets may be left on the mother plant for multiple growth. The ideal
hanging basket plant, sp. 'Cascade' produces long, hanging stolons of up
to two feet with rosettes ( pups ) forming at the ends. Other varieties
will form clumps or mats of beautiful color. If one wishes to remove the
offsets, allow them to grow to about one-quarter the size of the mother
plant. Then, a slight tug will easily detatch the offsets from the mother
plant. Some varieties release their own offsets when they are sufficiently
mature. Don't be alarmed that there are no roots on the pup. In nature
the pup would roll to a new location or take root in the decaying humus
around the mother plant.
Cryptanthus will root easily in potting medium. Make a small depression,
insert the pup's small stem and press the mixture firmly around it. Pot
no deeper than the base of the first leaf. Stake the plant if necessary
to keep it from rocking back and forth. It is essential for the plant to
be secure for an extra fast start and good growth. Bottom heat may speed
root development in colder climates. Place the newly potted plant in a
favourable location and water it as one would a mature plant.
Insects and Disease
Cryptanthus are realtively pest-free. By following good horticultural
practices severe problems can be avoided. Two of the more common insect
problems that may be encountered are mealy bugs or scale. Scale is a destructive
insect which forms and remains under a waxy scales on the plants. If either
are found on cryptanthus, trat the infected plants with any insecticide
recommended for use on houseplants. Wear gloves, follow the manufacturer's
instructions for mixing, and dip the entire plant in the insecticide.
Fungus is the most common disease found in Cryptanthus. There are many
good fungicides available. In an area where fungus is a problem use a fungicide
regularly.
After any treatment, keep the plant in the shade for at least 4 to 24
hours. Then rinse it thoroughly, but do not place it in bright light until
the leaves are completely dry.
With any severe infestation or disease, infected plants should be isolated
until the problem is corrected
Cryptanthus should also be protected from contact with galvanised metal,
copper and pre-treated wood.
Who are the Cryptanthus Society???
The Cryptanthus society are a non-profit, horticultural organisation,
striving to promote and maintain public and scientific interest in research,
preservation, development and distribution of Cryptanthus throughout the
world. Members find new freinds in Australia, North America, South America,
Africa, Europe and Asia. Plant lovers are growing Cryptanthus in window
sills, in greenhouses, in indoor light gardens and outside in temperate
regions. We are working to make everyone aware of how much fun and how
easy it is to grow Cryptanthus.
You Can Help
The Cryptanthus Society Publish a Color Quarterly Journal... for both
the amateur and the professional, the explorer, the scientist, the hybridiser,
the grower and the blue-ribbon winner. As a member, you'll be among the
first to find out about newly discovered species, the latest hybrid, the
newest growing "secrets". Discover new freinds who share your amazement,
excitement and delight in growing these wonderful plants. They look forward
to sharing your experiences.
Write to :
The Cryptanthus Society Secretary:
Carole Richtmyer, Secretary
18814 Cypress Mountain Drive
Spring, Texas 77388
United States of America
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