Aspidistra elatior

castironfull
(Photo by Walter Sablack)

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Taxonomy (1)

Classification: Angiosperm, monocot
Family: Liliaceae
Common name: Cast-iron Plant, Bar-room Plant

General Information (1)

Region of Origin: Himalayas, China, Japan
USDA Plants Hardiness Zones: 7-9
Growth Habit: Herb

  • Size: 1.5-2 feet
  • Deciduous/Evergreen: Evergreen
  • Flowering: Autumn

Diagnostic Characteristics

Leaves (1)

  • Shape: Ovate
  • Other: 12-18 inches, develop from rhizomes

castironleaf
(Photo by Walter Sablack)

Flower (1)

  • Color: Purple
  • Other: Occur underground

Horticultural Information (1)

  • Light: Partial to full shade
  • Maintenance: Easy to care for
  • Landscape Uses: Containers, edges
  • Other: Drought tolerant

Interesting Facts (1)

  • Flowers are appreciated by moles
  • Can survive "spittoonish" conditions, hence the name "Bar-room Plant"

References

1) Dirr, M. (1990). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses (4th ed.). Champaign, Ill.: Stipes Pub.

Prepared by Walter Sablack as a course requirement for BIOL 3630/5630, Spring 2013
Edited by Jessica Bartek