Aspidistra elatior – The Indestructible “Cast Iron Plant”

The Aspidistra elatior, commonly known as the Cast Iron Plant, has earned its name for good reason. Famous for its remarkable toughness and ability to thrive in low light, this hardy evergreen houseplant has been a favourite in homes for generations. Its broad, glossy, dark-green leaves bring a touch of calm and elegance to any space, from traditional interiors to modern minimalist settings.

Perfect for hallways, offices, and low-light corners where other plants struggle, Aspidistra elatior requires minimal care but delivers maximum impact. Its rich foliage provides a year-round tropical feel, and its timeless beauty makes it a plant that never goes out of style.

General Information

Native to the forests of Japan and Taiwan, Aspidistra elatior naturally grows in shaded areas beneath trees, making it perfectly suited to low-light indoor conditions. It’s slow-growing but extremely long-lived, often passed down through generations as a family heirloom.

• Habit: Clump-forming evergreen perennial with upright, arching leaves.

• Height & spread: Typically grows 60–75cm tall and 45–60cm wide.

• Foliage: Large, leathery, dark-green leaves up to 50cm long and 10cm wide.

• Flowers: Occasionally produces small, purplish-brown flowers at soil level; often hidden by the leaves.

• Growth rate: Slow, steady grower that can live for decades with minimal attention.

• Light: Thrives in deep shade or low indoor light; tolerates indirect sun but avoid harsh rays.

• Soil: Well-drained, loam-based compost; avoid soggy soil conditions.

• Temperature: Prefers 10–25°C; tolerates occasional drops but should be kept away from frost.

• Uses: Ideal for low-light interiors, offices, shaded conservatories, or as a durable indoor statement plant.

Because of its tolerance for neglect, pollution, and low humidity, Aspidistra elatior is often called “the ultimate survivor” among houseplants.

Care Guide

This plant is one of the easiest to care for, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking for fuss-free greenery.

Planting & Positioning

• When to plant: Year-round as a houseplant.

• Containers: Use pots with good drainage; heavy clay or ceramic containers suit its upright form.

• Placement: Ideal for shaded rooms, hallways, or north-facing windows.

• Rotation: Turn the pot every few months for even leaf growth and light exposure.

Watering & Feeding

• Water sparingly — the top 3–5cm of soil should dry before watering again.

• Overwatering is the most common issue; this plant prefers to be on the dry side.

• Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.

• Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser for healthy leaves.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to keep them clean and glossy.

• Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves at the base to maintain its tidy appearance.

• Repot every 3–4 years in spring to refresh soil and provide room for new growth.

• Propagate by gently dividing the rhizomes (underground stems) during repotting.

Protection

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.

• Keep away from cold draughts and radiators.

• Generally pest-free, though occasionally affected by scale insects or spider mites — wipe with a mild soapy solution if necessary.

Why Choose Aspidistra elatior?

This plant’s timeless appeal and resilience make it a perfect fit for any home or workspace.

• Extremely hardy: Thrives in low light, poor air, and irregular watering.

• Low-maintenance: Ideal for beginners and busy lifestyles.

• Elegant foliage: Deep-green, glossy leaves add structure and sophistication.

• Long-lived: A true investment plant that can last for decades.

• Versatile décor: Complements modern, traditional, or vintage interiors.

The Aspidistra elatior, or “Cast Iron Plant,” is the ultimate symbol of endurance and quiet beauty. With its lush, glossy leaves and legendary resilience, it brings a sense of calm, nature, and longevity to any indoor space — proving that elegance and toughness can go hand in hand.

• Size
  P19

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.