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Genus Aspidistra

Aspidistra Aspidistra elatior Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner
ass-pih-DIS-trah
The genus Aspidistra includes a few species of evergreen, rhizomatous perennials that are valued for their evergreen, glossy foliage and their ability to grow despite full shade, fluctuating temperatures, and neglect. The leaves are elliptic or lance-shaped, and may have yellow or white markings in some species. Flowers are usually hidden and are borne at soil level on the rhizomes. These plants are commonly grown as houseplants. A. elatior is the well-known "cast-iron plant."  
 Noteworthy characteristics: Native to the Himalayas, China, and Japan. Evergreen, leathery, glossy leaves. Flowers are pollinated by snails or slugs. Plants tolerate deep shade and neglect.
 Care: In the garden, grow in moist but well-drained, fertile, sandy soil with added leaf mold. Choose a sheltered site in full or partial shade. Indoors, grow in bright filtered light. Water sparingly in winter.
 Propagation: By division in spring.
 Problems: Generally problem free.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Aspidistra

Aspidistra elatior Aspidistra elatior
(Cast-iron plant) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This is an ovate, glossy-leaved plant usually grown as a houseplant. In early summer, it produces fleshy, bell-shaped, cream colored flowers with maroon interiors.