Cast iron plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called aspidistra, bar room plant · Aspidistra elatior · Asparagaceae family
18 d in winter
How often to water the cast iron plant?
Allow about 10 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 18 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
The plant for dark corners: it copes with shade, cool rooms and forgetfulness. Grows slowly, rarely needs repotting.
What light does it need?
The cast iron plant is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 4 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 45 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 20–32 in (50–80 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Brown patches on the leaves
Cause: Direct sun. What to do: Move it to shade or filtered light.
Split leaves
Cause: Knocks or very dry air. What to do: Nothing serious: cut damaged leaves off at the base.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the cast iron plant?
About every 10 days in spring and summer, and every 18 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the cast iron plant?
The cast iron plant is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Should you mist the cast iron plant?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the cast iron plant?
Every 4 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the cast iron plant safe?
The cast iron plant is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the cast iron plant forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.