How to Grow Aroid Plants (High Humidity Types)
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Aroid Plants (High Humidity Types)
Araceae family (various genera including Anthurium, Alocasia, Philodendron, Monstera, Rhaphidophora)
flowerAroids are tropical flowering plants characterized by their distinctive spadix and spathe inflorescence, commonly grown as houseplants for their striking foliage and unique flowers. Many species thrive in high-humidity environments and require warm, indirect light. These plants range from compact specimens to large climbing vines, offering diverse options for indoor gardening.
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Example Aroid Plants (High Humidity Types) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Aroid Plants (High Humidity Types)
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Aroid Plants (High Humidity Types) blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →USDA zones 11-12; primarily indoor cultivation in cooler climates
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Get my Aroid Plants (High Humidity Types) timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksRecently propagated cutting or young plant with minimal root development; small unfurling leaves
Maintain very high humidity (70-80%); avoid fertilizing; keep in warm location (70-80°F); provide bright indirect light; water carefully to prevent rot while maintaining moisture
Vegetative Growth
4-12 weeksPlant develops robust root system and produces multiple new leaves; stems thicken and grow vigorously
Maintain 60-70% humidity; increase light intensity; begin light fertilizing (diluted liquid fertilizer) every 2-3 weeks during growing season; support climbing varieties with moss poles or stakes; rotate plant weekly for even growth
Maturation
Several months to yearsPlant reaches size suitable for flowering; leaves are fully formed and display characteristic color; potential for producing inflorescences
Maintain consistent warmth (65-75°F minimum); ensure 60-75% humidity; fertilize monthly with balanced or bloom-promoting fertilizer; provide excellent drainage to prevent root issues; ensure adequate air circulation
Flowering
2-8 weeks per flower; can rebloom multiple times yearlyDistinctive spadix (spike) surrounded by colorful spathe (modified leaf) appears; some species produce fragrant blooms
Maintain warm temperatures (70-85°F); provide high humidity (65-75%); bright indirect light enhances coloration; continue regular watering; do not fertilize heavily to avoid pushing leaf growth over flowers
Post-Flowering & Rest
Variable; 2-4 weeks before new growth resumesSpathe fades and drops; plant may slow growth slightly; potential for seed production if pollinated
Remove spent flowers to redirect energy; maintain regular watering and humidity; reduce fertilizing if plant shows slowdown; can trigger dormancy period in winter with cooler temps (60-65°F) and less frequent watering
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity to 70%+; spray foliage with neem oil every 5-7 days; isolate affected plants; ensure good air circulation; mist frequently
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; increase air circulation; inspect new plants before introducing
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Manually remove with fingernail or soft brush; spray with horticultural oil; treat every 10-14 days for 4-6 weeks; isolate heavily infested plants
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Increase humidity which they dislike; use sticky traps to monitor; spray with neem oil; improve air circulation; remove affected leaves
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Allow soil surface to dry between waterings; use sand layer on top of soil; yellow sticky traps; neem oil drench; improve drainage to prevent conditions favoring larvae
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Remove infected leaves immediately; avoid wetting foliage; improve air circulation; ensure pots have drainage holes; use sterile pruning tools; may require copper fungicide in severe cases
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Repot in fresh, sterile, well-draining mix; trim away blackened roots; ensure pot has drainage holes; reduce watering frequency; do not allow soil to stay soggy; improve air circulation
Uses
Indoor Air Purification
HouseholdMany aroid plants, particularly Philodendrons and Anthuriums, are noted for their ability to absorb airborne toxins such as formaldehyde, ammonia, and xylene, improving indoor air quality. NASA studies documented their effectiveness in removing volatile organic compounds from indoor environments. [source]
Cultural Food Plants
CulinarySeveral aroid species produce edible tubers or corms (such as Taro/Colocasia esculenta) that are staple crops in tropical regions, though most ornamental aroids grown indoors are toxic if ingested. Only cultivate food aroids if properly identified and grown specifically for consumption. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalCertain aroid species have been used in traditional medicine systems for various purposes, though scientific validation is limited and many species contain calcium oxalate crystals which can be irritating. Use only under guidance of qualified practitioners. [source]
Interior Design & Biophilic Decor
CraftAroid plants with diverse foliage patterns, colors, and growth habits create dramatic living décor elements, often used in modern interior design for creating statement walls, terrariums, and moss pole displays. Their architectural form and sculptural quality enhance minimalist and tropical aesthetic styles. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeIn tropical regions where certain aroids grow outdoors, their unique inflorescences attract specialized pollinators including beetles, flies, and other insects through scent and thermogenesis. Indoor cultivation rarely results in pollination without artificial assistance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For ornamental flowers: Cut spent spathes at base once fully faded (2-8 weeks after emergence); flowers can be left on plant or removed to encourage new blooms. For propagation: Take stem cuttings 4-6 inches long with at least 2 nodes just below water line; roots develop in 2-4 weeks in water before potting; alternatively, air layer mature stems for larger plants. Maintain humidity during propagation process.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Some aroid species, like Philodendron 'Pink Princess', exhibit 'variegation reversion' where the plant naturally loses its striking pink coloration if not given sufficient bright indirect light, reverting to solid green—this is the plant conserving energy rather than a permanent loss.
- 🌱 The Titan Arum (Amorphophallus titanum) produces the largest unbranched inflorescence in the plant kingdom and smells like rotting flesh to attract carrion flies for pollination; despite their size, plants may only flower once per decade in cultivation.
- 🌱 Many aroids produce aerial roots that can reach extraordinary lengths—some climbing Philodendrons develop aerial roots 10+ feet long in nature, and these roots are designed to absorb moisture and nutrients from humid air, allowing them to thrive on tree trunks in rainforests.
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