foliage
DecorativeStromanthe Triostar
Stromanthe sanguinea
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (source: ASPCA (Marantaceae, non-toxic)).
Some direct sun — an east or west window, or a few hours of direct light.
Keep evenly moist — water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Needs a little consistency, but nothing fancy.
Stromanthe ‘Triostar’ is a prayer-plant relative with pink, cream, and green variegation and burgundy undersides that show as the leaves fold up at night. It is pet-safe, but like its Calathea cousins it is fussy about dry air and hard water.
About Stromanthe Triostar
Stromanthe 'Triostar' (Stromanthe sanguinea) is a prayer-plant relative grown for foliage splashed in pink, cream, and green, with burgundy undersides that show as the leaves lift and fold at night. It comes from the Brazilian rainforest. For a renter it suits a 4-litre pot in bright indirect light, and unlike many showy foliage plants it is safe to keep around pets.
It carries the family's preferences, and its fussiness. Give it bright indirect light to hold the pink variegation, keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy, and pay attention to water quality and air. It browns at the edges in dry air or from hard tap water, so filtered or rainwater and decent humidity make the difference. It grows as an upright clump rather than a trailer, reaching around 0.4 to 0.6 metres.
What it’s like to grow
Stromanthe is rated moderate, and the difficulty is its sensitivity rather than any tendency to die. Crispy brown leaf edges are the common complaint, traced to dry air or hard water. Variegation fades in light that is too low. Keep it bright, humid, and watered with soft water and it stays vivid. It is non-toxic to cats and dogs, a pet-safe pick among the more colourful foliage plants.
What to expect
It asks for a little consistency, but nothing fancy. No sunny window? It also does fine under a clip-on grow light.
See what you’ll need to get started ↓Grow it alongside
Houseplants that want the same light, water and humidity are happy sharing a spot. See what thrives with Stromanthe Triostar →
Tips
- Give it bright indirect light to keep the pink variegation strong.
- Use filtered or rainwater and keep humidity up; it browns in dry air.
- Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy.
Common problems
- Crispy brown leaf edges in dry air or from hard tap water.
- Fading variegation in low light.
Common questions
Is Stromanthe Triostar toxic to cats and dogs?
Stromanthe Triostar is non-toxic to cats and dogs, which makes it a safe pick if you have pets. Source: ASPCA (Marantaceae, non-toxic).
How much light does Stromanthe Triostar need?
Stromanthe Triostar does best in medium, indirect light: near an east or west window, or a little back from a bright one. Direct midday sun can scorch it.
How often should I water Stromanthe Triostar?
Water Stromanthe Triostar when the top inch of soil feels dry, then let it drain. Aim for evenly moist, not soggy.
What temperature does Stromanthe Triostar need?
Stromanthe Triostar is happiest around 18–27 °C. It tolerates brief dips to about 13 °C, but cold drafts and sudden chills set it back.
Does Stromanthe Triostar need high humidity?
Stromanthe Triostar prefers humid air. Group it with other plants, stand it on a pebble tray, or run a humidifier — dry indoor air tends to brown the leaf tips.
Can I grow Stromanthe Triostar without a sunny window?
Yes. Stromanthe Triostar does well under an affordable clip-on grow light, so a bright window isn't essential.
How big does Stromanthe Triostar get?
A clumping foliage plant ~0.4–0.6 m tall with upright variegated leaves.
How do I propagate Stromanthe Triostar?
Divide the clump when repotting.
What pests affect Stromanthe Triostar?
Watch for spider mites and fungus gnats. Check new growth and the undersides of leaves often, and treat early with a rinse or insecticidal soap before they spread.
Is Stromanthe Triostar easy to grow?
Stromanthe Triostar is moderately easy. It asks for some consistency with light and water, but nothing advanced.
Gear for Stromanthe Triostar
Gear suggestions to get you started — general picks, not paid placements.
Pet-toxicity from the ASPCA. Care details are general guidance, not professional or veterinary advice. Photo: Kepadalisna, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA). Care info last updated 2026-06-08.