Overview
Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' is a matforming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Cryptanthus, part of the Bromeliaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include houseplants, sub-tropical, low maintenance and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' is a matforming cultivar of the Cryptanthus genus, known for its evergreen, strap-like leaves with wavy edges arranged in a rosette shape. As a perennial, it maintains its foliage year-round and thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained loam or sandy soil with an acidic pH. This cultivar prefers sheltered positions with full sun to partial shade, ideally facing east, south, or west. Suitable for houseplants or conservatories, it is hardy to H1b and can be propagated by removing offsets in early summer. It offers seasonal interest in spring and summer with small, greenish-white flowers that may have a pleasant fragrance.
About the genus
Cryptanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Bromeliaceae, subfamily Bromelioideae. The genus name is from the Greek cryptos (hidden) and anthos (flower). The genus formerly had two recognized subgenera: the type subgenus and subgenus Hoplocryptanthus Mez which has been raised to the separate genus Hoplocryptanthus.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cryptanthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cryptanthus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cryptanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Sub-tropical, Low Maintenance, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic'
- Propagation
- Removing offsets in early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to root rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic'?
Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' need?
Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' hardy in the UK?
Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic' has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Cryptanthus 'Black Mystic'?
Removing offsets in early summer.