{"product_id":"earth-star-plant-cryptanthus-zonatus","title":"Cryptanthus zonatus – Earth Star","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eLow-growing and full of character, \u003ci\u003eCryptanthus zonatus\u003c\/i\u003e is all about striking foliage. Its wavy, star-shaped rosette is patterned with silvery bands across deep green or bronze-toned leaves, giving it a slightly wild, almost reptile-like texture. Unlike many bromeliads, this one stays compact and terrestrial, making it perfect for terrariums, small pots, or adding interest to plant shelves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eScientific Name\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci\u003eCryptanthus zonatus\u003c\/i\u003e (banded hidden flower)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon Name\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eEarth Star\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eNative to eastern Brazil, typically found growing on the forest floor in warm, humid environments\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLight\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePrefers bright, indirect light to maintain its bold patterning. It can tolerate lower light, but colours may dull. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eKeep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHumidity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThrives in higher humidity, making it ideal for bathrooms or terrariums. In drier homes, mist regularly or place near a humidifier to prevent leaf edges from crisping\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSoil\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eUse a free-draining mix with good moisture retention, such as houseplant compost with added bark or perlite. As a terrestrial bromeliad, it prefers soil rather than being mounted\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eFeed lightly once a month during spring and summer with a diluted liquid fertiliser. Avoid overfeeding, as it is not a heavy feeder\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTemperature\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePrefers temperatures between 18–26°C. Avoid temperatures below 12°C and keep away from cold draughts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePet-safe\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eGenerally considered non-toxic, though it is best to keep out of reach of pets to avoid any irritation from chewing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSprouts Top Tips\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eIf the leaves start to lose their pattern or become washed out, it usually means the plant needs a brighter spot. Keep humidity up as well to maintain that lush, healthy look\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExtras\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eAfter flowering, the main plant will slowly decline but produces offsets around the base, which can be separated and grown on\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid You Know?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe name \u003ci\u003eCryptanthus\u003c\/i\u003e means “hidden flower,” as the plant’s small blooms sit low in the centre of the rosette and are often tucked away beneath the foliage\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sprouts of Bristol","offers":[{"title":"9cm","offer_id":45493958279421,"sku":"1321064461271","price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0490\/2774\/3905\/files\/earth-star-plant-cryptanthus-zonatus-583646.jpg?v=1721947833","url":"https:\/\/sproutsofbristol.pro\/products\/earth-star-plant-cryptanthus-zonatus","provider":"Sprouts of Bristol","version":"1.0","type":"link"}