On the leaf of the Cryptanthus fosterianus is a pattern of white horizontal stripes that make a wavy movement. These Bromeliads remain on the small side. Once a year theybloom with white bright flowers that are quite small but still a nice addition because of the strong contrast to the leaves. In the wild Cryptanthus fosterianus lives on the ground of rainforests, where they can live in the loose soil. After a plant has blossomed, new shoots are formed that take over the mother plant and bloom again the following year.his Bromelia from Brazil grows in soil, in contrast to most bromeliads, which grow on trees or rocks with adhesive roots. They can handle with more shade and humidity. For this reason Cryptanthus fosterianus is ideal for use in a terrarium, where they really stand out from the other plants with special brown to red coloured leaves without dominating. Or they can be used to brighten up a bare corner of a room. Botanical information Scientific name: Cryptanthus fosterianus Family: Bromeliaceae Origin: Brazil, tropical rainforests Growth: Terrestrial, ground-growing, compact Leaves: Red-brown with white horizontal stripes in a wavy pattern Flowering: Small white flowers, once a year Propagation: Offshoots form after flowering, replacing the mother plant

A loose soil, such as a mix of orchid bark with sphagnum- or peat moss and cocopeat, is ideal for Cryptanthus fosterianus. Water when the top layer of the earth starts to become slightly dry. Give the roots enough space to grow, by using a pot the size of the plant itself. These plants prefer indirect sunlight, but in semi-shade they also do well. The more light the plant reeives, the stronger the red colours can become. Soil: Loose, well-draining mix (orchid bark, sphagnum moss, cocopeat)Water: Let the soil partially dry, never completely; give roots spaceLight: Prefers indirect sunlight; half-shade is fine. More light enhances red leaf tonesPropagation: Offshoots appear after flowering and bloom the following yearCompact, low-maintenance, and visually striking, Cryptanthus fosterianus adds tropical elegance to terrariums and interior spaces.