Cast Iron Plant

Cast Iron Plant Overview

Aspidistra contains just under 100 evergreen, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennials native to Southeast and Eastern Asia. Many are restricted to China or Vietnam. These plants are often commonly called Cast Iron Plants, they like moist, shaded conditions, typically growing under canopies. Leaves and fleshy flowers are produced at ground level and this genus contains species commonly kept as houseplants for their ease of care, tolerance to shade, and attractive, glossy, sometimes variegated foliage. Flowers are purple, cup-shaped, and borne on very short stems at soil level. These are hidden by the foliage and are typically pollinated by snails and slugs. Members of this genus are also useful as a ground cover species, particularly in mild climates.