Cast Iron Plant
Scientific Name: Aspidistra elatior
Common Names: Cast Iron Plant, Bar Room Plant
Native to: Japan and Taiwan
Lighting Requirements: Morning sun to shade; tolerates deep shade
Height: 1 to 3 feet
Width: 1 to 3 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen; retains dark green, strap-like leaves year-round
Seasonal Interest: Consistent green foliage year-round; small, inconspicuous purple flowers at the base of the plant
Drought Tolerance: High; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor soils
pH Range: 5.5 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: 7 to 11
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant
Attracts: Not significant for pollinators
Potential Issues: Generally pest-free; may develop leaf spot or root rot if overwatered or in poorly drained soil
Notes: It is ideal for Central Texas due to its extreme heat and drought tolerance. It performs best in shady areas and is an excellent choice for underplanting beneath trees. It requires minimal maintenance, making it perfect for low-water, low-effort gardens.Â
Love this shade plant! As its name suggests, it is nearly indestructible. Cast Iron may be native to Taiwan and the southern islands of Japan, but it's wonderfully adapted to Central Texas. It is evergreen, but I recommend cutting the leaves to the ground in the spring and letting the new growth take over. Cast Iron is deer-resistant, but the deer don't always care. Spraying them with a deer repellant when newly planted and during severe droughts is safest.
Fun Fact: The purple blooms at the base of the plant smell like mushrooms which attracts fungal gnats for pollination!
