How to Grow Small-growing aroids

Small-growing aroids

Araceae family (various genera)

flower

Small-growing aroids are compact members of the Araceae family, including popular houseplants like Anthuriums, Aglaonemas, and Alocasias in miniature forms. These tropical plants are prized for their distinctive foliage, unique flower spathes, and ability to thrive indoors in containers. They range from low-growing ground covers to compact upright varieties, making them ideal for shelves, desks, and small spaces.

Looking for a specific variety?

Anthurium clarinervium Aglaonema commutatum Alocasia 'Frydek' Syngonium 'Pink Splash' Rhaphidophora tetrasperma Anthurium scandens

When should you plant Small-growing aroids in your zone?

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Example Small-growing aroids timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Small-growing aroids
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
First Small-growing aroids blooms
Mid-to-late summer

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Small-growing aroids dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Bright, indirect light; 4-6 hours daily. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves. Some varieties tolerate low light but grow slower.

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top 1 inch of soil is dry. Reduce watering in winter. Use filtered or distilled water if possible, as many aroids are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride.

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Spacing: 6-12 inches depending on mature size and variety inches

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Days to maturity: Variable; most reach mature size in 1-2 years

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as original container; do not bury stems

Soil

Type: Well-draining, airy potting mix with peat moss, orchid bark, and perlite

pH: 5.5-6.5

Amendments:

Orchid bark for drainage and aeration Perlite or pumice for air pockets Coconut coir or peat moss for moisture retention Activated charcoal to prevent root rot Worm castings for gentle nutrition

Growing Zones

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Zones 10-11 outdoors; primarily grown indoors in containers in cooler climates

10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Establishment

2-4 weeks

New plant settling into container with minimal new growth, foliage may appear stressed or droopy

Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Avoid fertilizing for 4-6 weeks. Keep in bright indirect light to encourage acclimation.

Vegetative Growth

Ongoing, several months to years

Plant produces new leaves regularly, stems elongate slightly, root system develops within the pot

Water when soil surface dries. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with diluted liquid fertilizer. Increase humidity with misting or humidifier. Rotate plant weekly for even growth.

Flowering

Several weeks to months depending on variety

Plant produces characteristic spadix (flower spike) surrounded by colorful spathe (modified leaf). Common in Anthuriums with red, pink, or white spathes.

Provide bright indirect light to encourage blooming. Maintain warmth (65-75°F minimum). Ensure consistent humidity. Remove spent flowers to encourage new buds.

Mature

Indefinite with proper care

Plant reaches full compact size with dense foliage and regular flower production if applicable; establishes stable growth pattern

Repot every 18-24 months in spring. Prune dead or yellowing leaves. Maintain regular feeding schedule. Watch for pest issues common on mature plants.

Seasonal Rest

2-3 months (winter)

Growth slows significantly in winter months; reduced leaf production and extended periods between new growth

Reduce watering frequency slightly but do not allow soil to dry completely. Maintain bright light. Minimize or eliminate fertilizing. Keep plant away from cold drafts.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Pothos Philodendron Peperomia Syngonium Fittonia Prayer plant (Maranta) Begonia African violet

Avoid planting near:

Drafty air vents Heating sources Direct sunlight from south or west windows Ethylene-producing fruits (apples, bananas) Plants requiring very dry conditions

Common Pests

Increase humidity, mist regularly, spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7-10 days. Isolate affected plants.
Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Check undersides of leaves frequently.
Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly. Remove heavily infested leaves. Increase air circulation.
Scrape off manually with soft brush. Spray with horticultural oil or neem oil. Treat every 7-10 days for several weeks.
Repot in fresh dry soil, removing affected roots. Ensure pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering frequency. Use well-draining mix.
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Use sticky traps. Treat soil with Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) if severe.

Uses

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Indoor air purification

Household

Many aroids, particularly Anthuriums and Aglaonemas, are recognized by NASA studies and the Wolverton report as effective air-purifying plants that remove toxins like ammonia, formaldehyde, and xylene from indoor environments. [source]

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Edible tubers and corms

Culinary

Some aroid species produce edible tubers and corms (like taro and malanga), though small ornamental varieties are generally grown for decoration rather than food. [source]

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Decorative houseplant

Household

Compact aroids are perfect for interior decoration, adding tropical flair to desks, shelves, bathrooms, and low-light corners. Their diverse leaf patterns and colors complement modern, minimalist, and eclectic décor styles. [source]

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Traditional medicinal uses

Medicinal

In tropical regions, various aroids have been used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory and other therapeutic properties, though scientific validation is limited for ornamental varieties. [source]

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Propagation and propagation media

Craft

Small-growing aroids are excellent plants for practicing propagation techniques, thriving in water propagation, sphagnum moss, and semi-hydroponic systems popular with plant enthusiasts. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Small-growing aroids are primarily ornamental foliage plants. Harvest mature leaves for propagation by cutting at the petiole. Remove spent flower spathes after blooms fade to encourage new flowers. Prune stems to encourage bushier growth; cut just above a node. Propagate by stem cuttings in water or moist soil.

Fun Facts

🌱 The spadix and spathe (flower structure) of aroids can generate heat through thermogenesis, sometimes reaching temperatures 10-35°C above the ambient air, which helps volatilize pollen and attract pollinators.
🌱 Many small aroids in the Araceae family are tropical epiphytes in nature, meaning they grow on trees in rainforests, which explains their preference for loose, airy soil mixes and high humidity.
🌱 Some aroids contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause mouth irritation if ingested, making them toxic to pets and children despite their ornamental appeal—always place safely out of reach.

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