What Are Aroids?
Aroids are plants belonging to the family Araceae, one of the largest and most varied plant families in the world with over 3,700 species. They are characterised by their distinctive flower structure: a spadix (a spike of tiny flowers) surrounded by a spathe (a modified leaf or bract). In houseplant terms, the most familiar aroids include Monstera, Philodendron, Pothos (Epipremnum), Anthuriums, Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum), ZZ Plants (Zamioculcas), and many others.
Why Are Aroids So Popular?
Aroids dominate the houseplant world for several reasons. Many species are naturally adapted to the lower-light conditions of tropical forest floors or canopies, making them exceptionally well suited to indoor environments. They produce bold, architectural foliage in an extraordinary range of forms: fenestrated, velvety, variegated, trailing, or climbing. Many are fast-growing and rewarding, and the family contains species suitable for every skill level from complete beginner to advanced collector.
Climbing and Trailing Aroids
Many aroids are epiphytes in the wild, growing up the trunks of trees in search of light. In cultivation, these species thrive on a moss pole or trellis, which encourages larger, more mature leaf forms. Monstera, Rhaphidophora, Philodendron, and Scindapsus are all excellent climbers. Others, like Pothos and Scindapsus, are equally happy trailing from shelves and hanging baskets.
Humidity and Care for Aroids
Most tropical aroids prefer warm conditions (16-27 degrees C), moderate to high humidity, and bright, indirect light. They are generally sensitive to cold draughts and waterlogging, preferring well-draining compost kept consistently moist rather than alternately bone-dry and saturated. Feeding monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser supports healthy, vigorous growth.
Aroids for Beginners
If you are new to aroids, several species are particularly forgiving and easy to grow. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) tolerates low light and irregular watering better than almost any other houseplant. ZZ Plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are remarkably drought-tolerant. Peace Lilies signal clearly when they need water by wilting, then recover fully once watered. Heartleaf Philodendron is vigorous and adaptable.
Rare and Collector Aroids
The aroid family includes some of the most sought-after collector plants in the world, from the variegated Monstera albo to rare Amydrium, Epipremnum pinnatum varieties, and unusual Anthurium species. At Grow Tropicals, we stock a curated selection of both popular and harder-to-find aroids, all grown in our specialist nursery under expert supervision.
