What Are Aroids, And Why Are They So Popular?
Aroids are among the home plants that make an instant dramatic impression. Plant enthusiasts and interior decorators love these showy, large plants for their lush presence.
Moreover, their ability to thrive in different environments, stunning foliage, and gorgeous flowers make aroids a must-have for anyone looking for a piece of the tropics in their home.
In this blog, we will examine Aroid plants, their classification, and the unique features that make them fascinating species to add to your collection.
What Are Aroids?
With around 4000 species, Aroids are large leafy plants belonging to the Araneae family. They are a vast group of perennial plants often found growing in tropical regions, where they thrive the best in the understory of forests, climbing trees, or on sprawling forest floors. Plant enthusiasts love aroids because they are adaptable to indirect light, making them the best house plants.
Most plants in the Aroid family are epiphytes (they grow on other plants or trees without drawing nutrients from them); while some are terrestrial that grow on the ground, others are climbers that use the support of trees or trellises.
Why are Aroid Plants Classified Through Their Flowers?
Aroid plants are mainly classified through their flowers, also known as inflorescences. These inflorescences have spikes covered with tiny flowers called spadix and are surrounded by a spathe, a leaf-like bract that resembles a petal. The magic happens in the spadix, which is covered in clusters of tiny flowers that can either be female or male. The spathe is a protective and decorative element, adding to the plant's beauty.
Another fascinating fact about Aroid flowers is that they can generate heat during blooming, helping them release a strong smell to attract pollinators.
An interesting characteristic about aroid flowers is that they frequently produce heat while they bloom, which aids in the emission of a potent fragrance that draws pollinators. While some species have a lovely scent, others may have an unpleasant pungent scent (see at you, Skunk Cabbage!).
What Makes Aroids So Well-liked?
1. Adaptable and Low Maintenance
They are wonderfully adaptable to indoor and outdoor spaces, and most species are ideal for apartments, offices, and other spaces without direct sunlight. They are also easy to maintain, making them the best house plants for busy gardeners and lovers.
2. Stunning Foliage
One of the biggest selling points of these Australian plants is their striking foliage. From their grand, heart-shaped leaves to their intricate patterns, the leaves of Aroid plants are unique and visually appealing. They are also glossy and textured, helping turn dull spaces into lush tropical paradises.
3. Features of Air Purification
Another well-liked characteristic of Aroid plants is their ability to filter the surrounding air. They are known to remove toxins from the air and improve the health of your house or place of business.
4. Infinite Variety
Aroid lovers are inundated with options, as there are 4000 species. You can find an aroid for every taste and space, whether you want giant statement pieces, climbers, or ground-covering plants.
5. Interior Landscaping and Aesthetics
Aroids are often the focal point of indoor landscapes. Their tropical appearance gives your room structure and individuality. They are the ideal showstoppers because they can transform the most boring spaces into lush jungle-like environments.
Interesting Aroid Species to Explore
Now, let's examine five common and unusual Aroid species that have merited a place in gardens and houses.
Monstera Deliciosa (The Swiss Cheese Plant)
Monstera Deliciosa is arguably one of the most well-known aroids. It is commonly referred to as the Swiss Plant, named for the distinctive holes in its leaves, which are believed to help the plant resist wind and rain in the wild.
It is the first choice for indoor and outdoor environments due to its large, fenestrated leaves. Because Monstera Deliciosa is a climber, it grows along walls or scale trellises, giving a green dramatic touch.
Alocasia (The Elephant's ear)
Another well-loved Aroid plant is the Alocasia, otherwise known as Elephant's ears. It is distinguished by its large, heart-shaped leaves, which are broad and glossy and range in color from deep green to metallic silver. With its pointed foliage, it attracts a lot of attention.
Philodendron Hieracium (Brasil )
The Philodendron "Brasil" is a typical climber with heart-shaped leaves and beautiful variegation. This kind gives a splash of colour and texture to any area with its lime green streaks on its dark green foliage. Because it proliferates, it's perfect for trellises, hanging baskets, or as a trailing plant on a shelf. Additionally, this species thrives in indirect light and requires little care, making it ideal for novice gardeners.
Foetus Sporocarps (Skunk Cabbage)
A little more unusual, the Skunk Cabbage is an Aroid that grows better outdoors because of its potent scent, similar to decaying flesh. Although not everyone likes this plant, it's interesting how it draws pollinators like beetles and flies. Skunk Cabbage's capacity to produce heat, which enables it to endure in colder areas, is what makes it so intriguing. The plant has an advantage in the early spring because of this thermogenic characteristic, which enables it to melt snow surrounding it.
Anthurium
Anthuriums are well-known for their vividly coloured spathes, which are sometimes confused with flowers. The spadix, which houses the actual flowers, is encircled by a waxy, heart-shaped spathe coloured red, pink, and white. Because of their long-lasting blossoms, anthuriums are a favourite of florists, and they make beautiful interior and outdoor features. The spathes' glossy finish also lends them an opulent, refined appeal that may enliven any space.
Care and Planting Tips for Aroids
Caring for Aroids is generally straightforward, but there are a few tips to ensure they thrive.
• Light: Aroids prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch their leaves, so they should be placed in well-lit rooms without exposure to harsh sunlight.
• Watering: Aroids like moist but not waterlogged soil. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.
• Humidity: Aroids are tropical plants that appreciate higher humidity levels. If you live in a dry climate, misting the leaves or placing the plant near a humidifier can help keep them happy.
• Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, preferably one designed for aroids or tropical plants. Adding perlite or orchid bark to the mix can improve drainage.
FAQs About Aroid Plants
1. Are Aroids safe for pets?
Many Aroids contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to pets if ingested. It's best to keep them out of the reach of cats and dogs or choose non-toxic alternatives if you have curious pets.
2. Can Aroid plants grow in low light?
Many Aroids can tolerate low-light conditions, making them ideal for indoor spaces. However, they will grow more vigorously and produce better foliage in brighter, indirect light.
3. How often should I fertilize my Aroid plant?
During the growing season (spring and summer), you can fertilize Aroid house plants monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. You can reduce feeding when growth slows down during the fall and winter.
4. Do Aroids need to be repotted often?
Aroids generally prefer to be slightly root-bound, so repotting is only necessary every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
If you are a plant enthusiast and are looking for Aroid plants
Final Takeaways
Aroids have earned their place in homes and gardens worldwide for their adaptability, stunning foliage, and easy-care nature.
Whether you're looking for an eye-catching centrepiece or a low-maintenance plant for your indoor jungle, there's an Aroid species that will fit your needs.
From the ever-popular Monstera to the unique Skunk Cabbage, these plants offer something for everyone. So why not bring a touch of the tropics into your home with one of these incredible Aroids?
Explore PlantArk, an Australian plants marketplace, to check the availability of these species along with a wide variety of other plants and seeds.
