Although itcan produce white bloomswhen grown indoors, ‘Grey Star’ rarely flowersthis plant is all about thedramatic foliage.
Here are the main care requirements for growing Ctenanthe Setosa ‘Grey Star’.
Light
Too much direct sunlight can result in fading colors on the leaves ofCtenanthe setosa’Grey Star'.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Too much shade can also result in diminished variegation and leggy growth.
Place the plant in bright, in-direct light for best results.
Add perlite to mix for good drainage.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Water
Water your plant with the right amount and temperature of water.
During summer, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged toavoid root rotand leaf fungal problems.
Water it slowly and only until the water begins to drain from the pot.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Remove the excess water so the plant is not sitting in any water.
In winter, let the soil dry slightly before watering.
Use room temperature water to avoid damaging sensitive roots.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Temperature and Humidity
Ideal temperatures are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ctenanthe setosa ‘Grey Star’ is sensitive to temperature changes, drafts, and dry air.
If you like to keep your home’s temperature high, avoid placing it near vents.
AllCtenanthespecies need plenty of humidity to thrive.
Ahumidifier is also a worthwhile investmentif you are a tropical houseplant fan.
Feeding can also be halted in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows and stops.
This tends to happen with the older leaves towards the base of the stem.
Trimming these off will direct all the plant’s energy into young growth.
Here are steps for both methods.
If you have an established plant, you may suddenly seed new pups emerging from the pot.
you could easily harvest these pups to create new plants.
Typically done in spring.
You may also findevidence of scale,thrips, andwhiteflieson the plant.
Some of the problems may stem from soggy soil conditions.
Common Problems With Ctenanthe Setosa ‘Grey Star’
This plant has a reputation for its finicky nature.
But there are three especially critical problems you might encounter with its leaves.
If you quickly address the issues, the plant may possibly survive.
Loss of Plant Leaves
The most common problem withCtenanthe setosa’Grey Star' is dehydration.
This plant typically has large, thick leaves that feature dark green and silvery-gray stripes on the top.
If the problem is not treated, the entire plant may begin to shrivel up.
Tiny waterings every day or two sometimes bring the plant back to life.
This may mean the plant is being overwatered.
Leaves may start to drop off from too much water, as well.
This plant definitely does not like to sit in water.
If the soil is waterlogged, double-check the drainage hole isn’t plugged.
Gently replace the soil with a dry mix.
Carefully trim away rotted portions of the roots with a sterilized cutting tool.
Though it could take some time, the plant may recover.
Trim the scorched leaves and relocate your plant to a bright area that does not have direct light.
This phenomenon of folding up their leaves at night is whyCtenanthe plantsare called prayer plants.
This behavior is known as “nyctinasty” in the horticulture world.
Ctenanthe amabilis.North Carolina State University Extension.
