Aspidistra elatior

Cast Iron Plant

Evergreen Perennial

Cast Iron Plant, famous for adaptation to nearly pitch black shade. Easy evergreen perennial in this climate forming 30" tall clumps over time. Best in dry shade with occasional water, under stairwells, dark dry planters. Small flowers appear at the ground and look like individual slices of pepperoni. Seriously. Protect from bright sun. NOT just a houseplant-easy to grow outside. Good under bamboo.—Courtesy Xera Plants

Growing Conditions

Zone: 8, 9, 10

Exposure: Full Shade, Deep Shade, Morning Sun, Open Shade

Water Needs: Low

Description

Size: 24 - 36 tall x 12 - 30 wide
Shape / Form: Strappy
Foliage Texture: Bold, Coarse
Foliage Quality: Bold, Coarse

Features: Attractive Foliage, Drought-tolerant / Water wise, Low Maintenance, Winter Interest, Year-round Interest

Foliage Color: Green
Leaf Shape: Strappy

Flower Color: Black, Insignificant, Ivory / Cream
Bloom Season: Spring


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Beds and Borders, Container, Cutting Garden, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Small Gardens
Special Situations: Courtyard / Urban Garden, Deep Shade, Dry Shade, Low Water / No Water, Tough / Fool-Proof

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Year-round Interest, Three Seasons of Interest
Plant Behavior: Slow Growing
Collections: eGardenGo Favorite, Plants That Earn Their Keep

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low

Plant Combos