Aspidistra

plant genus

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Related Topics:: cast-iron plant

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Aspidistra, genus of ornamental foliage plants in the family Ruscaceae, native to eastern Asia. The only cultivated species is a houseplant commonly known as cast-iron plant (A. elatior, or A. lurida). The cast-iron plant has long, stiff, pointed evergreen leaves that are capable of withstanding temperature extremes, dust, smoke, and other harsh conditions. The solitary, bell-shaped flowers, which are usually lilac in colour but sometimes brown or green, are borne at the base of the plant. The fruits of Aspidistra are small berries.

This article was most recently revised and updated by William L. Hosch.