Cast iron plant, Barroom plant

(Aspidistra elatior)

Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Long, arching, glossy, dark green leaves which arise from central point on stalk.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Dark Green

CONTAINER:

Large container (specimen), large planter (mass display).

LIGHT:

Low, medium. Tolerates artificial or existing room light, near a north, east, or west window, and up to 1000 footcandles.

WATER:

Occasional to normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2" and 1-1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool - medium. 50 - 70 (degrees F) days, 45 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average (30%) is best for foliage, will tolerate lower

FERTILIZER:

Every 2 weeks in spring and summer.

SOIL MIX:

1 part sterilized garden loam, 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite, and 1/2 to 1 part sphagnum peat moss.

PROPOGATION:

Division of clumps in spring.

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. Avoid plants with yellow or brown leaf margins, wilted or water soaked leaves.

CARE:

Easy. Tolerates wide range of conditions. Good for beginners.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

`Variegata' - leaves green and white striped.

PROBLEMS:

Brown marks on leaves: Don't overwater or leave water in pan under pot.
Scale insects: Scrape off. Isolate. If severe, dispose of plant.
Spider mites: Wash with soapy water and apply miticide.

COMMENTS:

Is used as a cut foliage in floral arrangements. Long lived. One of the most tolerant plants of low, artificial light and other adverse environmental conditions. Don't put in direct sun. Slow growing.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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