About

Aspidistra hainanensis 'Jade Ribbons' is a robust, evergreen perennial that forms clumps and features elongated, dark green foliage. In spring to summer, it may produce star-shaped flowers that are white with dark red markings, emerging near the base of the plant. While commonly cultivated indoors, this species also thrives in garden settings in temperate climates. It is well-suited for shaded areas and can withstand periods of drought.

About the genus

Aspidistra are perennial plants that grow from rhizomes, characterized by their upright, leathery leaves which can be either elliptic or lanceolate in shape. Their flowers, which are brownish and not particularly noticeable, develop directly from the rhizome.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Plant type

Houseplants

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Houseplants, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Cultivation

As a houseplant, grow in large pots of peat-free, loam-based compost. Although tolerant of deep shade, growth is best in bright, filtered light with a minimum temperature of 7°C. Water moderately in growth and apply a balanced liquid feed 2-3 times during the growing season; variegated cultivars revert to green if overfed. Outdoors grow in moist but well-drained, fertile, sandy loam with added leaf mould, in a sheltered site with full or partial shade. See houseplant cultivation for further information

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by division

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to mealybugs, glasshouse red spider mite, scale insects and vine weevil larvae

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free