Synonyms:

Billbergia acaulis
Cryptanthus burle-marxii
Cryptanthus fosterianus
Cryptanthus zonatus var. fuscus
Cryptanthus zonatus var. viridis
Pholidophyllum zonatum
Pholidophyllum zonatum var. fuscum
Tillandsia acaulis var. zonata
Tillandsia acaulis var. zebrina

Habitat:

Cryptanthus fosterianus is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil Northeast. In its natural habitat the plant thrives in the underbrush protected by other plant species. Growing under trees, this unusual succulent adapted to light shade exposure and moist environment. In nature it is often found in organic, well-draining soils and high humidity areas. The cultivar is likely that it was developed by plant collectors specializing in the cultivation and selection of bromeliads, aiming to produce a plant with superior aesthetic qualities.

Description:

Cryptanthus fosterianus cv. Elaine is a small herbaceous plant belonging to the Bromeliaceae botanical family. The plant grows in rosette and usually does not exceed 15 centimeters in height and 30 centimeters in width. The rosette is thick, relatively flat, spreading outwards to form a star-like shape and somewhat leathery, which helps the plant retain moisture. The leaves are lanceolate, with irregular margins, slightly pointed at the apex and variously colored. The unexpected colors of this plant are the secret of his success: the leaves are striated with grey green horizontal stripes and deep purple red band. This appealing aspect depends on the light level the plant is subjected: in lower light conditions the leaves are green with white stripes but when exposed to high sunlight they take purple hues. Blooming occurs during the warm period, usually during the summer depending on the climate conditions. The unassuming flowers are borne at the apex of the rosette and are tiny, creamy white to pale pink. After the first flowering the plant start to die and produce many pups at its base.

Cultivation:

The plant has a slow growth rate but it easy to cultivate. The best sun-exposure is light shade and is recommended to avoid direct sunlight to avoid scorching. The minimum temperatures that the plant can withstand are 10 °C, below this temperature it begins to suffer so it needs to be placed indoors in the coldest periods. The perfect soil is a well-drained soil that let the water to drain away and avoid root rot. To achieve this feature, you can mix the pumice soil, clay and soil. Using a perforated pot, you can drain excess water. Watering is very important for this species and should be done well: during the vegetative period you can water the plant every 3 days, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting water sit in the rosette, as this can lead to rot. About fertilization, for this plant is sufficient to fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with the specific fertilizers for Bromeliad or with low-nitrogen feed. Stop fertilizing during the winter months. You should repot the plant every 2 years in a pot 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season with fresh new potting soil. Be careful to red spiders and mealy bugs.

Propagation:

Propagation is usually carried out through the little sprouts that come off on top of the mother plant; instead of underneath/on the side. The “pups” can be knocked off fairly easily but you can simply plop them back into the soil and have yourself a new plant. To increase the success of propagation you can make two or more cuttings at the same time. For cuttings it is recommended temperatures around 20 °C.

Curiosity:

Their name comes from Greek and literally means “hidden flower”, referring to their small, inconspicuous flowers, which remain hidden by the leaves. Although they are sold as succulents, they do not really retain moisture to survive long periods of drought but are just relatively drought-tolerant.

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