Ctenanthe 'Grey Star'

Plant name: Ctenanthe ‘Grey Star’

Scientific name: Ctenanthe setosa ‘Grey Star’

Plant description:
Ctenanthe ‘Grey Star’ is a tropical foliage plant grown for its bold leaf pattern and upright, clumping habit. This ornamental houseplant forms dense groups of elongated leaves held on slender stems, creating a layered, architectural effect. Its refined coloration and structured growth make it a strong choice for interior plant styling and shaded outdoor plantings in suitable climates.

Flower description:
Flowering is infrequent in cultivated settings. When produced, blooms are small and subtle, typically pale in color and partially hidden within the foliage. The plant is grown primarily for its foliage rather than its flowers.

Leaf description:
Leaves are elongated and oval with a soft silvery-gray upper surface marked by darker green veining. The undersides are a contrasting rich purple, adding depth and dimension when viewed from different angles. The foliage has a matte finish and a slightly textured appearance, contributing to its refined look.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen perennial in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; widely grown as a houseplant in all regions.

Mature height and width:
Typically 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, forming a full, upright clump.

Landscape uses:
Suitable for indoor containers, shaded patios, tropical garden borders, and interior plant displays. Its upright growth habit makes it effective as a floor plant in residential or commercial spaces. It pairs well with other foliage plants that highlight its silver and purple tones.

Native range:
Native to Brazil and other parts of tropical South America.

Sun exposure:
Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sun can cause leaf scorch and fading, while very low light may reduce leaf contrast and overall vigor. Consistent filtered light supports strong leaf color and balanced growth.

Water requirements:
Requires evenly moist, well-drained soil. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between watering, but avoid prolonged dryness. Consistent humidity supports healthy foliage and prevents leaf edge browning.

Pests and problems:
May be susceptible to spider mites in dry indoor conditions. Brown leaf tips can occur from low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup from hard water. Good airflow and stable moisture levels reduce stress-related issues.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Performs well in warm indoor environments with stable temperatures. Sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F, which can cause leaf damage and slowed growth.

Growing tips:
Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Maintain moderate to high humidity to preserve leaf quality and prevent edge browning. Rotate the plant periodically for even growth and balanced light exposure. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and maintain the clarity of the silver-gray pattern. Consistent care and stable conditions support strong foliage and compact form.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.