Sunday, October 21, 2007

Aspidistra Elatior (Cast-iron Plant)

As their common name suggests, these plants will tolerate a certain amount of neglect. They were much used in Victorian days as specimen plants, but despite these associations, Aspidistra elatior can be used to great effect, either massed together or grouped with other, smaller plants. They are ideal plants for filling difficult, darker spaces.

Mini-climate
Cool, filtered sun.

Size
These plants have a maximum height and spread of 3 feet. Small plants are offered for sale.

Feeding
Feed with standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks in spring and summer.

Potting
Repot every three years using soil-based potting mixture but only if the roots have completely filled the existing pot. If you don't want to move an older plant into a larger pot, topdress instead.

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