Plant family

Aroids — Araceae

655 species across 27 genera in the Growli library

Aroids are the backbone of the modern houseplant hobby — the family behind monstera, philodendron, pothos, anthurium, alocasia and the peace lily. They share a distinctive flower structure (a spadix wrapped in a leaf-like spathe) and, botanically, a reliance on insoluble calcium-oxalate crystals for defence.

Browse aroids by genus

All aroids we cover

Aroids — frequently asked questions

Are aroids toxic to cats and dogs?

Most aroids are not pet-safe. Of the 655 aroids in the Growli library, 655 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. They are not uniformly safe, so always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.

How much light do aroids need?

Most aroids want bright, indirect light — 505 of the 655 in our library do best there. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it needs more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much.

Are aroids easy to care for?

Aroids are moderate to grow: the one real requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and most of the rest of their care follows.

What is the Araceae family?

The Araceae family — the aroids — groups 655 species across 27 genera in the Growli library, most prominently Philodendron, Anthurium, Alocasia. Members share a broadly similar light, water and soil pattern, which is why it pays to learn the family before the individual plant.