The cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) does indeed spread over time. This evergreen ground cover has lance-shaped leaves that can reach a height of 12 to 20 inches. It derives its name from its ability to withstand tough conditions, just like cast iron.
One of the ways the cast iron plant spreads is through its underground rhizome roots. These roots grow horizontally beneath the soil surface, allowing the plant to gradually expand its reach and create a larger clump over time. This spreading habit makes the cast iron plant a great choice for filling in empty spaces and creating a lush, green carpet in your garden or landscape.
I have personally witnessed the spreading nature of the cast iron plant in my own garden. When I initially planted a small patch of it, I was amazed at how quickly it started to spread and fill in the surrounding area. Within a couple of years, the original clump had multiplied, forming a dense and beautiful ground cover.
It’s important to note that while the cast iron plant does spread, it does so at a relatively slow pace. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, depending on your gardening goals. On the one hand, the slow spreading nature means that the plant won’t become invasive or take over your garden too quickly. On the other hand, if you’re looking for rapid ground cover, you may need to be patient with the cast iron plant.
To encourage the spread of the cast iron plant, you can divide the clumps every few years. This can be done by carefully digging up the plant and separating the rhizomes into smaller sections. These sections can then be replanted in other areas of your garden to create new clumps. This method not only helps the plant spread but also rejuvenates older clumps, promoting healthier growth.
The cast iron plant does spread through its underground rhizome roots, allowing it to gradually create a larger clump over time. Its slow spreading nature makes it a great choice for filling in empty spaces and creating a lush ground cover. By dividing the clumps every few years, you can encourage the spread of the cast iron plant and rejuvenate older clumps.
