Aspidistras are an evergreen rhizomatous perennial from the Asparagaceae family. Native to Japan and Taiwan, they were introduced to Europe in the 1820s and ultimately came to represent middle-class Victorian society when they, along with the Kentia palm, were the only indoor plants able to withstand the unsavoury conditions inside gas-lit homes, hence the nickname 'cast iron plant'. And while they can definitely handle a little neglect, these plants are at their best when they receive the right care! Here are some tips on making the most of your aspidistras.
Propagation
Aspidistras grow from stems called rhizomes; a long rootstalk that looks a little like a sweet potato and grows sideways under the soil. Both the roots and leaves of the plant grow directly from the rhizome, which also stores the plant's energy. Propagation is done by dividing the rhizome and replanting them. Rhizomes grow best when they aren't planted too deeply, as they like air and light. Before splitting a rhizome make sure it's healthy - it should feel hard, be tan or yellowish in colour and the roots should be whiteish. An unhealthy rhizome will be black, soft and crumble easily. In the right conditions a healthy rhizome can produce up to three new leaves each growing season.
Indoors
Aspidistras do best as houseplants. And while they don't mind low light, the brighter the spot they're in, the more vivid the leaf colours will be, particularly with the variegated varieties; by a window is ideal. Water well once a week in warmer months, making sure there's good drainage, as soggy roots are lethal to rhizomes. Let the potting mix almost completely dry out between drinks and reduce watering accordingly during winter. Always cut any browning or yellowing leaves off at the base and use a good liquid fertiliser a couple of times during spring and summer.
Outdoors
If planted outside, the golden rule for aspidistras is shade, shade, shade! In full, or even semi-sun, the leaves will burn and the plant will look dry and dull at best. Under porches and pergolas are good options. Outdoor aspidistras can take (and need) more watering than their indoor counterparts when it's hot, so water a few times a week in summer and adjust accordingly during other seasons. Apply a good liquid fertiliser a couple of times during spring and summer.
Flowers
A forgotten feature of aspidistras are the beautiful, port-wine coloured flowers that appear during spring and summer in established plants. They are the reason not to plant your rhizomes too deeply! The flowers grow low, at the base of the plant, and will be lost under the soil if the rhizome is too deep. Using a stake in a pot will help steady the rhizome so it sits high enough for the flowers to emerge.
Troubleshooting
