There are three different varieties of the Aspidistra plant that are used often in gardening in Australia. Arching, lanceolate, glossy dark green leaves (to 24” long and 4” wide) rise up directly from its fleshy rootstock on long stems. In deep shade, they stay green and healthy other than the occasional old, dead leaves that need to be removed. These spots may vary in shape, color, and size. This is a foliage plant that features long 4-inch-wide (10 cm.) Cast iron plants in gardens will prove to be steady performers with just a modicum of care and a basic understanding of their minimum requirements. When pruning your Cast Iron, use sharp, clean shears and cut any excessive growth or unwanted foliage at the base of the stem. He’ll deal with almost any light level (he’s not mad on strong sunshine). Find a shady corner in your garden or on your patio if growing in containers. Howard likes. CAST IRON PLANT PROBLEMS. The leaf spot disease most likely to affect cast iron plants is caused by Fusarium fungi, notes... Sclerotium Rolfsii Rot. Ready-to-use liquid copper fungicide can help control leaf spot disease and typically requires repeat applications at seven- to 10-day intervals. Pests and Diseases. You have permission to edit this article. Join the RHS today and get 12 months for the price of 9. Even so, there’s a few pesky pests or diseases that can still cause damage if you … As with all other fungal and bacterial diseases, better air circulation, well-drained soil, dry leaves, and less water help control Leaf Spot disease on plants. Brown leaf tips on cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) Reasons Why Indoor Plant Leaves Turn Brown Brown leaves may appear on your plants for a variety of reasons, some of them based upon the care you’re giving the plant, some upon environmental conditions, as well as pests and diseases. The hardiness of the cast iron plant extends to its pest and disease tolerance. It does best when it is grown in shade and well-cultivated, rich soil, but it can survive even in poor conditions and with little to no attention. Anthracnose Disease of Ornamental Plants: A Pictorial. A member of the lily family, cast-iron plant, Aspidistra elatiorto the surprise of manydoes, in fact, bloom. I have a Cast Iron Plant collection, i currently have 14 different types of cast iron plants. Many plant diseases can quickly return if the dead plant matter isn’t properly disposed of. What causes cast-iron plant leaves to yellow? Some causes of leaf spot are often limited to certain plant families, but most plants are vulnerable to at least one type. In this condition, they look terrible. To determine if the cast iron plant needs watering, stick your index finger several inches into the soil. Then flush the plant with pH balanced water. Do this at least once a month to keep … The Colletotrichum sp. The cast iron plant is capable of surviving in low light conditions, together with temperature extremes and irregular watering. Eventually, they’ll fall off. Jane introduces a plant that's practically indestructible "If you're looking for a plant that does well in a shady spot, this is the one for you. This iron plant is perfect for people who think they cannot keep plants alive indoors. Dan Gill is a horticulturist with the LSU AgCenter. One thing is for sure this plant is tough. About the Cast Iron Aspidistra. It’s not affected by too many of either! One of the most common versions of this plant is the one with white or cream spots on the green leathery leaves and this is called the Milky Way plant. Cast iron plants are hardy in zones 6 – 11 so they can be grown outdoors year-round in those areas. Leaves that appear to be infected need to be removed. I have been collecting for 2 years, and i want to share some things about them with you. These hardy plants can grow in almost any type of soil and even in times of drought. This fungal disease will cause the leaves near the base of the petiole to rot and fall from the plant, and the roots begin to blacken. Sign up for NOLA.com's online home and garden newsletter. Diseases. This drought tolerant plant does well indoors because of its easygoing nature and few serious problems.