Repotting Cryptanthus, a full guide

Your Cryptanthus should be repotted with care and in this article we go over exactly how to do it. Coming from the Bromeliaceae family of plants, it is a good idea to look at other types of Houseplant to make the best decision when repotting as all Houseplant plants can be repotted in similar ways.

What is the best way to repot your Cryptanthus?

In this article and the steps below, you’ll learn how to repot your Cryptanthus, just like you would repot your Crocodile Fern as it is in the same family. Follow along as you do it or make notes if necessary.

First, get your Cryptanthus loose in the pot

Once you have decided on repotting, do you research. Without research, the repotting process may not be as effective as you think and you can use this as an opportunity to maximise the health and growth of your Cryptanthus by checking the soil ph (4.0–6.0 (acidic)) and timing the repot just before the bloom time of the plant too. The bloom time of Cryptanthus is: Blooms once only. Once you are sure when to repot, water your soil in preparation for extraction.

Second, prepare the new pot for your Cryptanthus

Patience is key when extracting your Cryptanthus from the pot. Depending on the age of the Cryptanthus, it may have complex root systems. Take care and maybe turn it upside down to ease it out.

Third, select the soil optimally when preparing Cryptanthus for repotting

So you have prepared your new pot and also removed Cryptanthus from the old pot. The final step is simple, fill in any gaps with Bromeliad potting mix soil and allow your Cryptanthus to flourish.

How to care for Cryptanthus

After the repotting process for Cryptanthus is over, it is important that you are clued up on how to take care of it into the future.

After you have repot Cryptanthus, how should you take care of it?

Repotting your Cryptanthus requires a certain level of aftercare in order for it to reach its mature size of 3 in. to 3 ft. (varies by species). To repot in the best way, make sure you consider the hardiness zone of Cryptanthus if you live in the USA which is 10–11 (USDA) and compare your current climate to where the native area is (Brazil). This ensures your Cryptanthus gets Bright indirect light; resents direct sunlight exposure which is recommended.

Where should you keep Cryptanthus? Inside or outside?

Deciding on keeping a plant outside can be a risky option if you’re not sure how well your Cryptanthus will hold up in the change of climate. However, the good news is, now you have repotted it, it can always be brought back inside if you notice sub-optimal plant growth.

Take a look at the hardiness zone (10–11 (USDA)) and the plant’s original native area (Brazil). Then compare it to whether you think your local environment will suit your Cryptanthus or if you’re putting it at risk by keeping it outdoors.

If your Cryptanthus is repotted, will it bloom?

There is nothing better than seeing Cryptanthus flourish after you have repotted it successfully. You can expect White or pink (but generally grown for foliage) blooms in the Blooms once only time and enjoy seeing your Cryptanthus grow up before these months to around 3 in. to 3 ft. (varies by species). If you don’t like the look of the type of plant you’re growing, perhaps try growing a Croton instead.

All about Cryptanthus and it’s family

To take care of your Cryptanthus in the best way after repotting, make sure you research how to take care of Houseplant in general as your plant is from the same family. In latin, this family name is called Bromeliaceae that is safe.

Does Cryptanthus have any other names?

Your Cryptanthus may have other names you could call it. Consider the botanical and scientific names for the plants below. You may need this information when considering what soil type to buy or to get more specific on how to take care of it.

Scientific name Cryptanthus Cryptanthus
Botanical name Cryptanthus spp.


For a different plant in this family, check out Miss Kim Lilacs which will provide a nice contrast. Alternatively, to find a plant that is can be repotted in a similar way, maybe Cordylines are a good fit as they are in the same family.

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