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The Cast Iron Plant, or Aspidistra elatior, has been a favourite houseplant since Victorian times.
Latin name
Aspidistra elatior
Pronunciation
(“FY-kus ly-RAH-tah”)
Common name
Cast Iron Plant
Origin
Southern Japan
The Aspidistra elatior is popular due to its incredibly hardy, or ‘cast iron’ constitution – hence its common name. It is tolerant of very low light levels, dust, fumes and general neglect. However, it is more than just a plant for difficult locations.
Aspidistras have long, dark green ovate leaves held upright on quite long stalks. The large leaves, which can grow as long as 75cm, are quite tough and the plant is also slow-growing.
In Victorian houses, the plant was often displayed in special pots, or jardinieres, that had a characteristic shallow urn shape, and they were often highly decorated.
An especially unusual feature of the plant is its rarely-seen flowers. They grow close to the ground and resemble small fungi – and they are pollinated by fungus gnats, which are usually considered a nuisance when found among houseplants.
caring for your plant
Light
The plant is tolerant of very low light levels and should be kept out of direct sunlight.
Watering
Can tolerate irregular watering, and do not like to be kept wet.
Pruning
The plant should not be pruned, but dead leaves should be cut back using a sharp knife or secateurs as close to the base of the plant as possible.
Feeding
A weak solution of fertilizer should be added to the water at every watering.
pest & diseases
Mostly pest free, but you may find the occasional mealybug or scale insect, which should be removed when seen.
Where the Aspidistra Elatior originates from
This species originates from Japan and has been introduced to a number of other countries.
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