Cast Iron Plant
Aspidistra elatior · Asparagaceae
- Light
- Low to bright-indirect
- Water
- Low
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Division
Common problems: Root RotSpider MitesScale Insects
Quick facts
- Light: Low to bright indirect · Water: Let at least top half dry · Humidity: Average
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A slow, durable foliage plant with dark glossy strap-like leaves rising directly from the soil. It is one of the best choices for genuinely dim indoor spots where fussier tropicals just sulk and die.
Care
- Light: Handles low light unusually well, though it also tolerates brighter indirect light.
- Water: Let the mix dry partway between waterings. It would rather be a little dry than constantly wet.
- Soil & potting: Standard well-draining houseplant mix.
- Humidity & temperature: Average home conditions are fine.
- Feeding: Light feeding in spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Slow-growing and not in a hurry to be repotted.
Propagation
Best by division when repotting. Split the rhizome into sections with roots and several leaves attached. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Generally treated as pet-safe. Cast iron plant is widely listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — mostly from patience failure and overwatering.
- Spider Mites — occasional in very dry dusty rooms.
- Scale Insects — can hide along leaf bases and undersides.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.