Ctenanthe Grey Star Care

During the warm summer growing season, the soil should remain moist but never waterlogged. Too much water and poor drainage can quickly lead to root rot and leaf fungal issues. Generally watering around twice weekly is to be expected, but you should properly test the soil to make sure it is not already feeling soggy.

The only pruning this plant needs is removing damaged or dying foliage. 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 the young growth. It's also a good idea to periodically wipe down the foliage with a damp cloth.

fertilize monthly during the growing season with half strength fertilizer.

Ctenanthe are ground cover plants from the tropical forests of Brazil so these guys thrive in a warm position with medium filtered to soft light. If the leaves appear to be fading or losing their patterning and colour you may have them in too bright a position – move them to somewhere a little more sheltered. Keep them away from heating/cooling units as they are very sensitive to cold or hot drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.

Soil Type: Well-drained, moist Soil pH: Acidic, neutral

All Ctenanthe species need plenty of humidity to thrive. Ideal temperatures are somewhere between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you always have the AC or heating blasting in every room in your house, then a Ctenanthe setosa 'Grey Star' probably won't be the plant for you.

A Ctenanthe plant is slightly poisonous. Some plants contain chemicals such as oxalates, solanine, glycosides, or alkaloid lycorine that may cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, swelling and redness of the mouth, throat, and lips, and trouble breathing. The 'Grey Star' can easily reach up to a meter in height if you provide it with the right conditions.

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