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 a 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Cast Iron Plant performs well with relatively little water once established. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Cast Iron Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. For most gardens, 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
Cast Iron Plant sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to low water use and subtropical climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered 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. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
