Vary-leaf star Cryptanthus bivittatus

Earth Star is a native to Brazil boasting showy, bright pink leaves that form a star pattern. It is a bromelaid, which is a tropical plant having short stems with rosettes of stiff, spiny leaves.  Typically bromeliads form a cup for watering.  This variety needs to be watered from the root area.  It is also considered an epiphyte, similar to air plants, but in order to grow, it needs soil.  

Having the correct lighting is crucial.  Too much shade will cause the foliage to lose its brilliant color, while too much sun can cause the foliage to heat up, leading to the leaves withering and shriveling.  Morning and evening sun is best, while protecting from the midday sun. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch.  When grown in hotter climates, regular watering is best.  

It is commonly grown as a houseplant and needs excellent drainage. It is a top choice for terrariums and appreciates well draining soil containing largely organic matter.  

Its small white flowers are formed in the middle of the rosettes of the leaves.  They are insignificant, the plant is grown for its showy foliage.  

A low growing plant, the height reaches only 6", while the spread can reach almost triple the height.  The foliage can be striped in ivory tones and many shades of red and pink.  

Propagate this plant by dividing its offsets, commonly called pups.  After flowering, the 'mother' plant will begin to die but will live on by means of its pups.  Pull the pups off the 'mother' plant and place them in their own container.

In tropical locations, it can be left to flower, die off, and produce pups making it a beautiful ground cover.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Only flowers once in its lifetime, the plant will die after flowering.