Introduction to Aroids
"Aroid" is the common name for members of the Araceae family and sometimes known as the Arum family. The Aroid family contains 107 genera and over 3700 species.

They are a group of monocotyledonous flowering plants where the flowers are borne on an inflorescence known as a spadix. The spadix has small flowers crowded on a thickened, fleshy axis and usually produces foul scents to attract flies and beetles. The spadix is usually accompanied with spathe that wraps around it.

Aroids also produce exotic foliage that differentiates from other plants. They can appear in a wide range of size, shape and color.

They are mostly tropical, occurring as terrestrial, aquatic and epiphytic habitats. Some experience climatic changes and has a regular period of dormancy.

Cultivation of Aroids
Growing conditions are varied depending on original habitat of species; the best way to learn how to grow them is by studying their natural habitat.

Aroids occur in the tropical region of Asia and America. Species from lowland forest usually require warm temperatures about 25°C whereas highland montane species would prefer cooler conditions. Tropical evergreen species will require constant warm temperatures while seasonal species may need to experience seasonal change.

Asian species grow in humid and shaded forest and only a few species grows out in the open. They are best kept in places with bright filtered light.

Terrestrial aroids grow in loose leaf litter and are well drained. A mixture of small rocks such as perlite and compost can be used together to achieve a well drain medium.

Some tuberous species such as the amorphophallus experience a dormancy period of 3 - 7 months and they should be kept in a dry and cool place until they are woken up by exposure to humidity.