Aspidistra

Aspidistras form clumps of large upright or arching, tropical-looking leaves that are usually dark green, pointed and up to 60cm (2ft) tall. There are also cultivars with creamy-white speckles, blotches or irregular stripes on the leaves, giving a brighter effect.

Aspidistras are happy in low or filtered light and room temperatures of 5–20°C (40–70°F). They like moist compost from spring to autumn, and to be kept slightly drier in winter. Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them dust free and able to absorb maximum amounts of light.

Keep them out of bright or direct light, and take care not to overwater, as soggy compost can lead to root rot. They dislike heat, above 20°C (70°F), and cold, below 5°C (70°F).

In 1938, Gracie Fields recorded the hit song The Biggest Aspidistra in the World. Although her plant ‘shot up like a rocket and nearly touched the sky’, aspidistras don’t usually grow very large or fast, reaching only about 60cm (2ft) tall and wide, so they should fit easily into any home.