Wednesday, January 03, 2007

Aspidistra elatior - Cast-iron Plant


This leafy evergreen perennial is an excellent choice for low light areas. The wide foliage adds a nice texture that gives an almost tropical feel. This slow growing plant can eventually get up to 2 feet high and really thrives in well drained soils. It actually prefers full shade to partial shade and tolerates drought conditions very well.
I found this plant under a shady cherry tree near a mass of azaleas. It also looks great in containers or used to edge a shady garden bed. Plant light green hostas nearby for a great color contrast or creeping jenny/vinca minor underneath for a textural contrast.
Does best in warmer climates specifially zones 8 & 9. Native to Himalayas, China, & Japan.