Aspidistra zongbayi 'Old Glory'

Old Glory Cast Iron Plant

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Item #: 3693

Zones: 7b to 10b

Dormancy: Evergreen

Height: 10" tall

Culture: Light Shade to Shade

Origin: China

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


(aka: Aspidistra 96CPC240) Aspidistra zongbayi 'Old Glory' is a 2002 Plant Delights/JLBG introduction of a cast iron plant selection made in the wild in Sichuan, China, by plantsman Darrell Probst in 1996. This low-growing groundcover cast iron plant is composed of 10" long x 3" wide, light green foliage of Aspidistra zongbayi 'Old Glory' has a 0.75" wide yellow stripe running down the center of each leaf. As the leaves mature, they are also highlighted by a good sprinkling of yellow dots...hence the name Aspidistra 'Old Glory'. Aspidistra zongbayi 'Old Glory' has thrived for us in the garden since 2002.

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.