Aroids are the arum family, Araceae. Many favourite houseplants belong to it: monstera, philodendron, pothos (Epipremnum), anthurium, alocasia, aglaonema, syngonium, peace lily and ZZ plant. Their flower is a spike called a spadix wrapped in a leaf-like hood called a spathe; the white 'flower' of a peace lily is a spathe.
Many aroids are climbers. Monstera deliciosa is a hemiepiphyte: wild seedlings creep along the ground until they reach a tree trunk, then climb it, anchored by aerial roots. Where it grows in the ground it is best planted near a tree or trellis it can climb, and indoors a stake or moss pole does the same job. Those aerial roots are a normal part of the plant, not a sign of trouble.
Climbing aroids also change as they mature. A young monstera has small, whole leaves; the famous splits and holes appear on older, bigger plants. If yours has plain leaves, it may simply be young.
For care, Monstera deliciosa is typical of many: bright, indirect light rather than full sun, a well-draining mix with bark and perlite, and watering once the mix has partly dried.
One caution: nearly all aroids contain calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and throat if chewed. Keep them away from pets and small children who might nibble.
Key points
- Many aroids climb with aerial roots; give them support.
- Young climbing aroids may have plain leaves that split later.
- Nearly all aroids irritate if chewed; keep from pets and children.
Try this
Look at your largest aroid. If it leans or sprawls, plan a moss pole or stake and tie the stem loosely to it.
Check yourself
Read more in the reference
Sources
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