Cryptanthus Fire Mystic, Red Earth Star Plant - They are very easy to grow and exceptionally beautiful plants. Cryptanthus is a genus in the botanical family Bromeliaceae, subfamily Bromelioideae. The genus name is from the Greek “cryptos” and “anthos”. They differ from bromeliads that you may be familiar with in that they obtain water from their roots. They must remain in soil and can not be mounted and grown as epiphytes. Light: INDOOR: Bright light from an east or west window. Outside (zones 9+) Some full sun OK. Too much shade and the colors will fade. Too much sun and the leafs can burn. Temperature: Warm (60-80 degrees F/16-27 degrees C) year-round. This is "in general". If you have micro climatic zones you know warm weather plants do well, these will probably do well there too. I keep mine outdoors year round and we do occasionally have LIGHT frosts. Fertilizer: Depends on fertilizer used. Fertilizing is not necessary for the plant to survive, but it does produce larger, healthier, more vibrant plants. Top dressing with Osmocote seems to work well enough. If you use something else, follow manufactures instructions. Water: In warm weather, water / let top 1" - 2" of substrate dry / water again. Water thoroughly when watering to ensure good root growth. Soil: Peat, perlite mix is best. Regular soil less potting mixes like Miracle Grow should be fine too. Repotting: Repot every 2 to 3 years. Plans can live 10 + years and indefinitely when pups (offsets) are considered.