Cryptanthus zonatus

Cryptanthus zonatus, with a diameter of approximately 20 to a maximum of 30 cm, is a relatively small bromeliad (Bromeliaceae) native to the east coast of Brazil. There, it grows terrestrially (in the ground) in relatively dry savanna regions, not as an epiphyte in the rainforest like many other bromeliads. For this reason, Cryptanthus are often also called "earth stars." The tough, thick leaves serve as water storage.

C. zonatus has a dark brown to black base color with very striking white banding. It is therefore also called zebra plant or zebra earthstar.

After an inflorescence has formed, the mother plant slowly dies and produces many small offshoots that emerge on the sides.