perennial

Cast Iron Plant

Aspidistra sichuanensis 'Haku Sei Ryu'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Average

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Sichuan China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Aspidistra sichuanensis is a tough, rhizomatous, evergreen perennial that forms a clump of upright, leathery leaves. Native to the forests of Sichuan, China, it is prized for its ability to thrive in deep shade and less-than-ideal conditions. Small, fleshy, purplish flowers bloom at ground level in late winter or early spring. The cultivar 'Haku Sei Ryu' is distinguished by its dramatic foliage. Each dark green, lance-shaped leaf features a prominent, central stripe of creamy white, which may be solid or speckled, resembling a dragon in flight, as its Japanese name 'White Dragon River' suggests.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that brightens shady areas year-round.

Thrives in wet soils and poor drainage, reducing garden maintenance.

Supports native shade-dwelling insects and offers habitat cover.

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 rhizomes into well-draining soil in shaded area
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist
Mist leaves regularly to increase humidity
Apply compost in early spring for nutrients
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays moist and provide ample shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Provide shade during hot summer days
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid direct sun exposure ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy fertilization that can burn roots

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen groundcoverContainer planting in shaded patios

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Heuchera Astilbe Japanese forest grass

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 early spring through mid-spring. 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.