The cast-iron plant from China is one of the most resilient houseplants ever introduced. It grows as a clump, producing man)’ single dark green leaves, which reach up to 2 ft. (60 cm) long. Cream and purple flowers, ¾ — 1¼ in. (2—3 cm) across, are produced in spring, but may not be seen among the foliage. Varieties include: A.e. ‘Milky Way,’ with leaves speckled white, and A.e. ‘Variegata,’ with cream-variegated leaves.
Size: Height 18 in. (45 cm), spread 2 ft. (60 cm).
Light: Partial shade.
Temperature: Tolerates a wide range.
Moisture: Keep barely moist.
Feeding: Give standard fertilizer at each watering.
Propagation: Divide large plants in spring. Each piece should have leaves and some roots.
Special needs: Overwatering causes brown blotches on the surface of the leaves.