Family: Asparagaceae

Aspidistra elatior, commonly known as the cast iron plant, is a hardy, low-maintenance evergreen perennial native to Japan. Its broad, dark green leaves grow directly from the soil, forming a dense, attractive groundcover that can tolerate low light, drought, and neglect—hence the nickname “cast iron plant.” Often grown as an indoor houseplant, it is also used in shaded outdoor landscapes where other plants struggle to thrive. Its inconspicuous, bell-shaped flowers appear at the base of the leaves, occasionally producing small, dark fruits.

In Hawaii, the cast iron plant is occasionally cultivated in gardens and landscapes, particularly in shaded or low-maintenance areas. It is not currently known to be naturalized or invasive in the islands, making it a relatively safe choice for gardeners seeking resilient greenery. Its toughness and adaptability make it ideal for erosion control on slopes, under trees, or in urban landscapes where other plants may fail. While it is unlikely to cause ecological harm, gardeners should still be mindful of planting it near natural areas to prevent potential escape.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate tolerance
  
• History of repeated introductions as an ornamental
  
• Tolerant of deep shade
  
• Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions
  
• Reproduces by vegetative fragmentation (rhizomes)
  
• Intentionally dispersed by people
  
• Tolerates and benefits from mutilation (division)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not known to be naturalized or weedy anywhere
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• Slow generative time (takes years to mature)
  
• Requires specialist pollinators (amphipods/slugs), limiting seed set
  
• Low seed production and no effective seed dispersal mechanisms
  
• Not a climber and does not form dense thickets