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Sunday, February 13, 2011

Aspidisra (Aspidisra elatior)

Commonly called cast-iron plant, aspidistra lives up to its nickname. One to two feet long, lapered, dark green or variegated leaves arise from a crown.

Light
Aspidistra tolerates a wide range of light. While it will survive in dark corner, it will be more luxuriantnear windows out of direct sun.

Water
More problems arise by overwatering then under-watering. Water thoroughly, then let soil surface dry.

Special Helps
Aspidistra can handle temperatures from 45 to 85 F. Solid green type prefers rich soil (two parts good garden soil, one part compost or leaf mold, one part perlite or sand), but variegated varieties change to all green in rich soil. Feed in spring and summer. Too much hot sun will yellow leaves. White spots with brown margins indicate fungus disease-remove entire leaf and burn. If fern scale insects appear (white males; brown, oyster shaped females), wash them off with soapy water. Trim off brown leaf tips. Obtain new plants by divining old ones. Cut roots apart with a sharp knife. Shade new trans-plants from direct sun.  

Source : Growing Houseplants

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