earth star (Cryptanthus) · Asked on Instagram · 30 October 2026
What kind of plant is this pink striped rosette houseplant?
This is an Earth Star, a type of bromeliad from the Cryptanthus group. Grow it in bright indirect light, keep the soil just slightly moist, and it will keep that pretty pink color.
The question
“I received this plant as a gift. Does anyone know what kind of plant this is?”
What's likely going on
The plant in the photo is an Earth Star, most likely a Cryptanthus bivittatus variety. These are small bromeliads known for their flat, star-shaped rosettes and wavy, striped leaves in pink, cream, and green.
They don’t grow like typical leafy houseplants. Instead, they stay low and wide, and over time the main plant will make little “pups” (baby plants) around the base.
What to do
Light
Put it in bright, indirect light – near a bright window but out of harsh midday sun. Too little light = faded colors; too much strong sun = crispy brown patches.Watering
- Keep the top of the soil just slightly moist, not soggy.
- Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Empty any water sitting in the saucer so the roots don’t stay waterlogged.
Humidity & temperature
Earth Stars like warm, humid air. Normal indoor temperatures are fine, but keep them away from cold drafts or AC vents. A tray of pebbles with water under the pot or grouping plants together can help with humidity.Soil & pot
If you repot, use a loose, well‑draining mix (regular potting soil mixed with some orchid bark or perlite works well). Choose a small pot with drainage holes.Feeding
During the growing season, use a very weak liquid fertilizer (about 1/4 strength) once a month. They’re light feeders.
How to prevent it
- Don’t let it sit in waterlogged soil.
- Don’t park it in a dark corner; you’ll lose the pink color.
- Avoid blasting it with direct noon sun through glass.
When to worry
- Leaves turning mushy, center rotting, or sour smell: likely overwatering or poor drainage – let it dry out more and check for root rot.
- Leaves all pale green and stretching: needs more light. Move it closer to a bright window.
- Crispy brown streaks or patches: too much direct sun or very low humidity.
Otherwise, Earth Stars are tough little plants and usually easy to keep happy once you match the light and watering to their liking.
Answered by the GrowPls assistant. Every plant and room is different; if things don't improve, a clear close-up photo of the affected part is the fastest way to a better answer.
Related questions
cucurbit vine (gourd/squash family)
What is this cucurbit vine growing wild on my trellis?
This looks like a cucurbit vine – something in the gourd/squash family, such as pumpkin, bottle gourd, or another edible squash – probably a volunteer from kitchen scraps or old compost. Let it flower and fruit to know exactly which one.
tomato
What plant is this seedling I planted?
The seedlings in the photo are tomato plants. Give them strong sun, a bigger pot or bed, and support as they grow taller.
sapodilla (chikoo)
What is this tree with brown round fruits – is the fruit edible?
This looks very much like a sapodilla (chikoo) tree, whose ripe fruit is edible and sweet, but never eat anything based only on an online ID. Have a local plant expert or neighbor familiar with the tree confirm it in person before tasting.
pothos (money plant)
Why are my pothos leaves turning yellow after repotting?
Those yellow leaves are most likely from stress after repotting plus soil that’s staying too wet. Check that the pot drains well, let the soil dry a bit between waterings, and trim off the worst yellow leaves.