Aspidistra leshanensis CBCH768

Leshan Cast Iron Plant

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Item #: 11475

Zones: 7b to 9b

Dormancy: Evergreen

Height: 28" tall

Culture: Light Shade to Shade

Origin: China

Pot Size: 3.5" pot (24 fl. oz/0.7 L)


We are pleased to introduce the virtually unknown Aspidistra leshanensis, which hails from 2,000' elevation on China's Leshan Shi, in Sichuan province. Aspidistra leshanensis is a close relative of Aspidistra sichuanensis, forming a tight evergreen clump of 28" tall, upright green leaves, spotted with small yellow dots. The upturned purple cups with white centers lay atop the soil in September. We are pleased to offer French plant explorer Cedric Basset's wild collection. We haven't had a cold winter since planting Aspidistra leshanensis in the ground, but based on its location in the wild, we're guessing Zone 7b/8a.

Maintenance:

Aspidistra are very low maintenance perennials. Each leaf can last up to 3 years, but after the second year, it will begin to show signs of aging and leaf degradation. For that reason, we recommend removing all old foliage regularly to retain the attractiveness of the clump. It's always disappointing to see large patches of cast iron plants in public spaces where it hasn't been properly maintained.

Growing Conditions:

Cast iron plants grow well in both moist and dry soils as long as the drainage is good. Aspidistra must be grown in shade, since their foliage will scorch if they are subjected to sun. In the jungles where they grow, they are often seen in very deep shade.

In containers, they make superb house plants. The common name cast iron plant speaks to their durability in less than ideal conditions. Regular moisture, including increased humidity when they are grown as house plants, keeps them from getting stressed and becoming susceptible to spider mites.

Garden Value:

The bold texture and upright form of cast iron plants is invaluable in the garden, since there few other plants with this form and texture. Many have amazing flowers, produced at the base of the foliage, often in the winter months. While these flowers are rarely noticed in the garden, they can be quite attractive in the home.