Aspidistra / 911爆料

漏 Shutterstock

Introducing...

Aspidistra

Botanical name: Aspidistra

Common name: Cast-iron plant

Popular for their resilience and their large bold leaves, aspidistras are must-have houseplants. They thrive in dark corners and other tough spots, needing little attention and adding a tropical appearance without any fuss. No home should be without at least one.

Looks

Aspidistras form clumps of large upright or arching, tropical-looking leaves that are usually dark green, pointed and up to 60cm (2ft) tall. There are also cultivars with creamy-white speckles, blotches or irregular stripes on the leaves, giving a brighter effect.

Likes

Aspidistras are happy in low or filtered light and room temperatures of 5鈥�20掳C (40鈥�70掳F). They like regular watering from spring to autumn, with a slight reduction in winter. Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them dust free and able to absorb maximum amounts of light.

Dislikes

Keep them out of bright or direct light, and take care not to overwater, as soggy compost can lead to root rot. They dislike heat, above 20掳C (70掳F), and cold, below 5掳C (70掳F).

Did you know?

In 1938, Gracie Fields recorded the hit song The Biggest Aspidistra in the World. Although her plant 鈥榮hot up like a rocket and nearly touched the sky鈥�, aspidistras don鈥檛 usually grow very large or fast, reaching only about 60cm (2ft) tall and wide, so they should fit easily into any home.