Aspidistra daibuensis 'Yushan Starbright'

Species

2 other cultivars

groundcover

Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant

Aspidistra daibuensis 'Yushan Starbright'

The Story

Plant Bio

Aspidistra daibuensis is an evergreen perennial forming clumps of long, narrow, upright, leathery leaves. Small, fleshy, brownish-purple flowers bloom at ground level and are often hidden by the foliage.

The cultivar 'Yushan Starbright' is distinguished by its dark green leaves which are heavily speckled with small, bright yellow spots, creating a starry night effect.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage year-round, adding texture and depth to shaded garden areas.

Suppresses weeds effectively and requires minimal care once established.

Supports shade-loving insects and maintains soil health in woodland gardens.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Taiwan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Spring – Late fall

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy
Place in partial shade for optimal growth
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for thriving growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Place in partial shade to prevent leaf scorch

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to direct full sun
Avoid heavy clay soil without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenEvergreen groundcover border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese forest grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant questions

What zones can Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant grow in?

Yushan Starbright 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 Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant bloom?

Yushan Starbright 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 Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant need full sun?

Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant does best in part shade.

Is Yushan Starbright Cast Iron Plant drought tolerant?

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