Aspidistra elatior 'Variegata' prophouse-on-the-horizon In zones 8 and 9

In zones 8 and 9 expect a return from the roots after a hard winter

and year-round under glass

and 'California Dawn' plays the part well: an evergreen specimen or informal screen that flowers when the borders have gone quiet

the leaves and sap are mildly toxic if eaten and can irritate skin

Calycanthus 'Venus' is a white-flowered sweetshrub bred by Dr

Aspidistra elatior 'Variegata' prophouse-on-the-horizon In zones 8 and 9A boldly striped form of the cast iron plant, Aspidistra elatior 'Variegata' carries the same broad, leathery, evergreen blades, each brushed lengthwise with bands of creamy white over deep glossy green. The variegation lights up a shaded corner, and the toughness is all there too: this is a near indestructible evergreen for difficult, low light places. A useful quirk: the white striping holds best on lean soil, so resist the urge to feed heavily, and