perennial

Cast Iron Plant

Aspidistra saxicola 'Come Here Spot'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A rhizomatous, evergreen perennial native to rocky areas in China. Aspidistra saxicola forms clumps of upright, lance-shaped, leathery, dark green leaves. Small, fleshy, purplish-brown, bell-shaped flowers appear at ground level in spring, often hidden by the foliage. This cultivar is noted for its compact size and dark green leaves that are heavily speckled with small, creamy-yellow spots, creating a starry or spotted appearance.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, evergreen foliage to shaded gardens and interiors, creating a calming green backdrop.

Tolerant of low light and poor soil, requiring minimal care and maintenance.

Provides ground cover that helps reduce soil erosion and maintains soil moisture.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil
Water thoroughly after planting
Place in partial shade or shade location
Maintain moist soil during first growing season
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Monitor for pests and remove any affected leaves

Pro Tip

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water when the topsoil feels dry 🌱
Place in shaded areas to prevent leaf scorch
Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly
Fertilize lightly in spring and summer

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight ❌
Don't overwater, which can cause root rot
Refrain from heavy fertilization in winter
Don't disturb roots during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush foliageIndoor shaded corner accentContainer display in shaded patios

Companion Plants

Ferns Calatheas Begonias Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cast Iron Plant questions

What zones can Cast Iron Plant grow in?

Cast Iron Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cast Iron Plant deer resistant?

Yes — Cast Iron Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cast Iron Plant bloom?

Cast Iron Plant typically blooms in spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cast Iron Plant need full sun?

Cast Iron Plant does best in part shade.

Is Cast Iron Plant drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cast Iron Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.