Cast iron plant
Aspidistra elatior · Family Asparagaceae
Also known as: aspidistra, bar room plant, parlour palm lily
- Light
- Shade to partial shade
- Watering
- Every 10 days
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
Care
Where to put it
A dim hallway, landing or north-facing room.
Light
Thrives in shade and partial shade. Direct sun burns the leaves.
Watering
Water sparingly when the compost is dry. Very forgiving of neglect.
About the plant
Known in English as the cast iron plant, the aspidistra became famous in Victorian homes for coping with dark rooms and fumes from gas lamps. Its long, dark leaves grow slowly and reach about 60 cm. It is ideal for dim corners.
Origin
Native to southern Japan, where it grows on the shady floor of humid forests.
What it likes
- Shade or partial shade
- Compost that dries between waterings
- Mild temperatures
What it dislikes
- Direct sun on the leaves
- Water sitting in the saucer
- Frequent repotting
Did you know?
Its purple flowers appear at soil level, often hidden under the leaves, and go unnoticed.
