Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Fittingly 'cast-iron plant' is named for its seeming ability to last forever in the most adverse conditions. Aspidistra elatior is a grand addition to the shade garden. It has wide, evergreen leaves that rise up from tough, rhizomatous roots.
The lance shaped leaves are dark green and leathery, and around 12-20 in (30-50 cm) long. The appearance of cast-iron plant is decidedly vertical. Some types of aspidistra are variegated with creamy streaks or dots; some are shorter than the species. (This one is the species) The plants spread in clumps, vigorously but at a moderate enough rate not to be invasive or even troublesome.
The flowers are borne close to the ground and never even seen unless one deliberately searches for them. Cast-iron plant is one of the best choices you can make for areas with dim light (such as indoors) or otherwise unfavorable conditions.
Zone 7-10
Cannot ship to California or Hawaii, ships with soil