perennial

China Star Cast Iron Plant

Aspidistra fungilliformis 'China Star'

The Story

Plant Bio

Aspidistra fungilliformis is a low-growing, clumping perennial with broad, dark green, leathery leaves. It produces subtle, fleshy, purplish-brown flowers at the base of the plant.

The 'China Star' cultivar is distinguished by its dark green leaves that are heavily speckled with small, bright yellow spots, resembling a starry night sky.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that adds texture and depth to shaded garden areas.

Thrives in low-light conditions, reducing the need for supplemental lighting or care.

Supports local beneficial insects by maintaining diverse shaded habitats.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in partial shade
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Keep soil consistently moist, avoiding waterlogging
Place in shaded location with indirect light
Transplant in early spring after last frost
Mulch around base to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure soil is moist and well-draining for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Provide indirect light or shade
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush, green foliageUnderstory plant in woodland gardensContainer plant for shaded patios

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Heuchera CaladiumBegonias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

China Star Cast Iron Plant questions

What zones can China Star Cast Iron Plant grow in?

China Star 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 China Star Cast Iron Plant deer resistant?

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

When does China Star Cast Iron Plant bloom?

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

Does China Star Cast Iron Plant need full sun?

China Star Cast Iron Plant does best in part shade.

Is China Star Cast Iron Plant drought tolerant?

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