Famously indestructible, with broad, upright dark-green leaves that shrug off deep shade and neglect. The go-to choice for difficult, dim corners.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 70 cm tall
- Aspect: shade and low-light positions and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Cast Iron Plant
Aspidistra elatior is an slow-growing indoor plant in the Asparagaceae family. It reaches around 70 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Cast Iron Plant
Cast Iron Plant suits subtropical climates and grows best in shade and low-light positions and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Cast Iron Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Cast Iron Plant is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Cast Iron Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Cast Iron Plant in the garden
Cast Iron Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Cast Iron Plant with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Cast Iron Plant
Plant Sale lists Cast Iron Plant as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.