Cast iron plant care
Aspidistra elatior needs low light. Check the soil before you water.
This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.
Add to my plantsCare at a glance
- Botanical name
- Aspidistra elatior
- Other names
- Aspidistra, Bar-room plant
- Light
- Low light. Put it in low to medium light. It grows well in shade. Keep it out of direct sun.
- Soil check
- Every 8 to 14 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
- Humidity
- Normal room air is fine
- Feeding
- Feed every 2 months in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.
How to check the soil of Cast iron plant
How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?
Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.
- Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
- Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
- Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.
Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.
Soil mix
Use normal potting soil with some perlite or bark for drainage.
Tips for Cast iron plant
- Brown, scorched patches mean direct sun. Move the plant to a shadier place.
- Yellow leaves mean too much water. Let the top 3 to 5 cm of soil dry.
- The plant grows slowly. Do not repot it more often than every 3 to 4 years.
Pet safety
Not toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.
ASPCA: Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior)