Aspidistra elatior
Cast Iron Plant
Elegant deep green, spear-shaped leaves are held on narrow stalks on this almost indestructible houseplant.
Aspidistra elatior tolerates unheated shady rooms as well as low humidity and periods of drought.
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Plant Biography
This lovely South East Asian species lives up to its nickname of ‘Cast Iron Plant.’ It is especially common growing wild in China and Vietnam. Some sources suggest this is also one of the foliage plants used historically in Japan as a way of separating foods in traditional bento boxes.
This is a species in the notoriously diverse Asparagus family (Asparagaceae). They occasionally produce strange reddish-pink flowers nestled right in the soil at the base of the plant.
Expert Tip
Care & Size Guidance
This is a notoriously slow growing plant, which is great for smaller spaces or a disinterest in repotting. However with bright indirect light and more attentive watering and feeding they can eventually grow to handsome clumps of 50-60cm or more.
Plant arrived in perfect control, well watered. Very pleased.
J Flavell (verified owner) –
I bought the smallest one and its a very good size. Came well wrapped and is now gracing my hall on the Victorian hall stand.
Louise R. –