Perennial
Cast Iron Plant
Aspidistra elatior
Varieties We Carry
Milky WayAspidistra elatiorGreenAspidistra elatiorStandardAspidistra elatior
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$19.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 4.
LightPart Shade, Full Shade
WaterLow
Mature size18-24 inches × 24-36 inches (spreads slowly by rhizomes)
About Cast Iron Plant
Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) is a robust, slow-growing perennial from China and Japan renowned for tolerating deep shade, drought, and neglect. It forms clumps of long, dark glossy green strap leaves rising directly from the ground. An indispensable foliage plant for heavily shaded landscapes and interior spaces. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Winter, Spring (inconspicuous soil-level flowers; late winter to early spring)
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
One of the most shade-tolerant plants available for NE Florida landscapes — thrives in deep shade where little else will grow, including beneath live oaks with competing roots. Avoid direct sun, which scorches the foliage.
Water
Drought-tolerant once established — an ideal low-maintenance plant for NE Florida shaded areas. Water regularly during establishment, then as needed. Occasional deep watering during dry periods will keep foliage looking its best.
Soil & Fertilizer
Adapts to a wide range of soils in NE Florida, from sandy to loamy. Prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil with some organic matter. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring or summer once per year; avoid overfertilizing, which can reduce vigor in variegated cultivars.
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Common questions
Is Cast Iron Plant a good plant for St. Augustine?
Cast Iron Plant is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 18-24 inches × 24-36 inches (spreads slowly by rhizomes).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.