Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

It's called the cast iron plant because it's as tough as one. Victorians grew it in their dark, gas-lit parlors where no other plant survived. It handles deep shade, temperature swings, dust, drought, and poor soil. Growth is slow — about one leaf per month — but each arching, dark green leaf lasts for years. If you travel frequently and forget about your plants, this is your soulmate.