Aspidistra elatior aka Cast Iron Plant

Taxonomy

Aspidistra elatior, commonly known as the Cast Iron Plant or Bar-Room Plant, is an evergreen perennial native to Southeast and East Asia. It is popularly grown as a houseplant, or outdoors, in shady places where temperatures remain above -5 °C (23 °F), and is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in a range of environments. The leaves are dark green and glossy, 12-20” (30-50 cm) in length, and are 8-lobed. The blooms of the Cast Iron Plant are cream-colored with maroon inner surfaces, bell- or cup-shaped, and bloom in early summer. The plant is pollinated and then produces a thick, spherical or pear-shaped berry that contains one or more seeds. Despite its resilience, the Cast Iron Plant still needs regular watering and should be kept within 3 feet of a window with well-draining soil. This low-maintenance plant has become a favorite of flower-growing novices, with over 1000 examples now having been grown around the world.

Common names

Cast Iron Plant, Barroomplant

How to care for Cast Iron Plant

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Cast Iron Plant due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Cast Iron Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cast Iron Plant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Cast Iron Plant is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Cast Iron Plant. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Cast Iron Plant is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The Cast Iron Plant is a clump-forming species, with new growth originating from the soil surrounding the main plant.

Region of origin

Cast Iron Plant’s native range is Southeast Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia