Aspidistra elatior

Common Name:
Cast Iron Plant

Description:
Aspidistra elatior, commonly known as the Cast Iron Plant, is a robust and enduring foliage plant that lives up to its name by thriving in the most challenging conditions. Native to the forest floors of Japan and Taiwan, this plant has become a favourite in Melbourne gardens and interiors for its ability to withstand low light, temperature fluctuations, neglect, and periods of dryness. Its lush, dark green, lance-shaped leaves emerge upright from underground rhizomes, creating a clumping, fountain-like habit. Aspidistra elatior is extremely shade-tolerant and ideal for dim corners, covered outdoor areas, or under established trees. It prefers well-drained soil and requires minimal maintenance, making it perfect for beginner gardeners or low-care landscapes. While it can produce small, purplish-brown flowers near the base, these are often hidden and insignificant compared to the foliage display. It's especially useful in courtyard gardens, pots, and indoor spaces where few other plants will thrive.

Form:

• Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

• Shrub - Small

• Ground Cover

• Indoors / Well lit

Mature Size:

• Height: 60 cm

• Width: 60 cm

Aspect:

• Part Shade

• Full Shade

• Indoors / Well lit

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring (seldom noticeable)

• Does not flower under Melbourne's weather conditions

Flower Colour:

• Purple-brown (inconspicuous)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Disease Resistant

• Suitable for Indoor Growing

• Perennial

• Low Light Tolerant

• Drought Tolerant

• Low Maintenance

• Excellent for Shaded Gardens

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Clivia miniata

• Fern species (e.g., Nephrolepis exaltata)

• Alpinia nutans

• Hosta cultivars

• Fatsia japonica