Bomb Proof
Probably one of the hardiest plants. Able to survive extreme temperature fluctuations, drought, most pests and even thrives in lower light.
Chart Topping
A very famous (at the time) musician, Gracie Fields created a hit song in the 1930s called 'the biggest aspidistra in the world.'
Look Out
The blooms from this plant appear at the soil level and can often go unnoticed. Look out for small, almost star-shaped deep pink flowers.
Cast Iron
Plant Bio
Native to Japan and Taiwan, this plant grows alongside understory plants, out of direct sunlight and in well-draining soils.
The genus 'Aspidistra' was named in 1822 from the Greek 'aspid', meaning shield and the second half was taken as a reference to its sister genus, 'Tupistra'. The species name 'elatior' translates to mean 'taller' due to the height of this plant's leaves at maturity.
Appearing as though it simply grows out of the soil (all you see of this plant is the leaves), the stems (known as rhizomes) are actually underneath the soil.
Part of the Asparagaceae family, alongside Asparagus Ferns and the asparagus you might find on your dinner plate!
Other common names include:
Iron Plant, Bar Room Plant
Cast Iron
Care Tips
Light: Naturally growing in shady conditions under other foliage, the Cast Iron Plant can tolerate lower light levels. However, a bright spot in your home is ideal for optimum growth. Avoid intense direct sunlight where possible.
Water: Happily tolerant of dry soil, the only thing to avoid with this plant is soaking it and not allowing it to drain thoroughly. Check when the top 2 inches are dry, then water.
Humidity: No extra humidity is needed.
Temperature: This plant will work in a draughtier spot in your home. However, stable indoor temperatures will ensure healthy growth.