perennial

Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant

Aspidistra retusa 'Nanjing Green'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Aspidistra retusa, commonly known as Nanjing Green, is an evergreen perennial that is exceptionally tolerant of low light and neglect, making it a popular choice for indoor and shaded outdoor areas. This cultivar features broader leaves and a more resilient growth habit compared to other Aspidistra species, with a distinctive rich green color that holds well in various conditions.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Aspidistra retusa Nanjing Green offers lush, dark foliage that enhances shaded garden areas, providing year-round visual interest.

Its tolerance for low light and neglect makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance indoor and outdoor settings.

Serves as ground cover that helps prevent soil erosion in shaded, moist environments.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck mature rhizomes into well-draining soil in shaded areas.
Mist leaves regularly to maintain humidity and encourage healthy growth.
Water when topsoil feels dry, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilize monthly during active growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Prune dead or damaged leaves with clean scissors to promote new growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent humidity and avoid direct sunlight for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Place in a shaded or partially shaded spot
Use a balanced fertilizer monthly during spring and summer
Prune dead leaves regularly
Maintain high humidity levels

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid dry, windy locations that dehydrate the plant ❌
Don’t disturb the roots unnecessarily
Avoid using heavy, clay-rich soil without amendments

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 woodland borderEvergreen foliage accentMoist, shaded garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Astilbes Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant questions

What zones can Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant grow in?

Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant bloom?

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

Does Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant need full sun?

Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant does best in part shade.

Is Nanjing Green Cast Iron Plant drought tolerant?

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