Aspidistra sichuanensis
Aspidistra sichuanensis
Sichuan cast-iron plant
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Taxonomy
Family Asparagaceae · Genus Aspidistra
Description
Aspidistra sichuanensis is a tough, shade-loving cast-iron plant from Sichuan, China. It forms neat clumps of evergreen, arching leaves and tolerates low light, irregular watering, and a range of indoor or shaded garden conditions—perfect for beginners and busy plant parents.
Common Names
Sichuan cast-iron plantCast-iron plantSpotted cast-iron plant
Context
nativeRegion
Shaded forest understories of Sichuan, China.
usdaZones
7–10 outdoors (widely grown indoors anywhere).
companionPlants
Hosta, Helleborus, Mondo grass (Ophiopogon), Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa), Ferns, Heuchera
culturalUses
Used as a durable houseplant and shade groundcover; valued for low-maintenance evergreen foliage and occasionally used in floral design.
Care
Care Requirements
LightLow to bright indirect light; thrives in shade and avoids harsh direct sun.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; drought tolerant. Reduce watering in winter and avoid waterlogged soil.
SoilWell-draining, airy mix (e.g., 2 parts peat/coir, 1 part bark, 1 part perlite/pumice). Outdoors, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
FertilizerLight feeder. Use a balanced fertilizer at half strength monthly in spring–summer or a slow-release granule every 3–4 months. Skip in winter.
HumidityAverage household humidity is fine (40–60% preferred).
TemperatureIdeal 60–80°F (16–27°C). Protect from frost; avoid sustained temps below ~45°F (7°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, rhizomatous clump-forming perennial with arching lanceolate leaves.
Mature Size12–24 in tall and 12–24 in wide (30–60 cm).
Growth RateSlow to moderate growth.
BloomingSmall, ground-level, starry maroon to purple flowers late winter to spring; often hidden by foliage.
DormancyEvergreen; growth slows in cool months but no true dormancy.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizomes, Seed (slow and uncommon)
DifficultyEasy by division; difficult and slow by seed.
Best SeasonSpring, as new growth begins.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; wipe leaves to remove dust.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years in spring; prefers to be slightly snug. Divide clumps when crowded.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant; may get scale, mealybugs, or spider mites indoors; slugs/snails outdoors. Root rot if overwatered; occasional leaf spot.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and humans (cast-iron plants are listed as non-toxic).
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