Araceae
Contents
Description
Araceae is a family of flowering plants commonly known as the aroid family, which consists of 114 genera and 3,700 species. The plants in this family are found in various regions around the world, including tropical and subtropical areas. The Araceae family includes some of the most interesting and diverse plants, such as the Philodendron, Anthurium, and the Peace Lily.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | 114 genera |
Appearance
The plants in the Araceae family have a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They can be small or large, and can grow as epiphytes, terrestrial plants or as aquatic plants. The leaves of the Araceae plants are usually broad and flat, with a glossy, waxy surface. The flowers are small and are surrounded by a special structure known as a spathe, which can be brightly colored and sometimes resemble a hood or a funnel.
Care Guide
Araceae plants are generally easy to care for and are great for beginners. Here are some tips to help you care for your Araceae plants:Water: Araceae plants prefer to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water your plants when the top inch of soil is dry.Fertilization: Feed your Araceae plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Araceae plants prefer a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Araceae plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Araceae plants are typically grown indoors, but some are hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Araceae plants are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot. Spider mites and mealybugs can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
The Araceae family is found in various regions around the world, including tropical and subtropical areas. They can be found growing in forests, swamps, and wetlands. Some Araceae plants are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants for support, while others are terrestrial plants or aquatic plants.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Araceae plant?
A: Water your Araceae plant when the top inch of soil is dry.Q: Can Araceae plants be grown outdoors?
A: Some Araceae plants are hardy in zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in these regions.Q: How often should I fertilize my Araceae plant?
A: Feed your Araceae plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What should I do if my Araceae plant has spider mites?
A: Treat spider mites with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to Araceae:- Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ plant)- Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)- Spathiphyllum (peace lily)- Philodendron- Monstera deliciosa (swiss cheese plant)
References
– “Araceae.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web.- “Araceae.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, n.d. Web.- “Araceae.” The Plant List. The Plant List 2010. Version 1. Web.
