Cast-iron plant care guide
Aspidistra elatior
Quick answer
Water your cast-iron plant when the top 6 cm (2.4 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 14 to 22 days.
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- Light
- Low light tolerant
- Typical interval
- Every 14 to 22 days · summer
Every 20 to 30 days · winter - Climate
- 5–27 °C (41–81 °F)
- Humidity
- 30–60%
- Pet safety
- Pet-safe (non-toxic)
When and how to water
6 cm (2.4 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 14 to 22 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 20 to 30 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Low light tolerant
Cast-iron plant tolerates low light but grows faster in medium light. Place it near a north-facing window, or a couple of meters back from a brighter one.
Feeding
Feed your cast-iron plant every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate5–27 °C (41–81 °F)
Humidity30–60%
Cast-iron plant is comfortable between 5 and 27 °C (41–81 °F). It handles a cool room well, even in winter, as long as it stays above 5 °C (41 °F).
It does best at 30–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
No. Pet-safe.
Cast-iron plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Common questions
How often should I water a cast-iron plant?
Water your cast-iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) when the top 6 cm (2.4 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 14 to 22 days. In winter, slow down to every 20 to 30 days.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineAccepted species record · common name cast-iron plant
- Royal Horticultural SocietyChoosing aspidistras · planting · ongoing care · feeding · problems · Plant profile · growing conditions · houseplant placement
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxDescription · cultural conditions · insects, diseases, and other plant problems
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · non-toxicity to dogs, cats, and horses
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