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What is Araceae?

Angie Bates
Angie Bates

Araceae is a family of plants with approximately 106 genera and 3,330 species. It contains extremely diverse species, both in appearance and in use. Though many species are used as ornamental plants, both indoor and outdoor, some are used as food, and still others have been historically used for medicinal purposes. Usually found in tropical regions, many species will cause skin irritation if handled.

Species appearance varies considerably. These plants are found both aquatically and terrestrially. Some species, like aglaeonema, may be houseplants, some climbing ornamental plants, such as Monstera deliciosa, and some are floating plants, like Pistia stratiotes or water lettuce.

The calla lily is a member of the araceae family.
The calla lily is a member of the araceae family.

Common attributes of plants in the Araceae family include berry fruit and small flowers which are clustered on a branch or branch system, called an inflorescence. Plants in this family all have a spike-like inflorescence called a spadix, with a bract, or a scale-like leaf, below the flower clusters. The bract may be brightly colored. Many species also have large leaves and stinky sap.

Arisarum flowering plants are part of the Araceae family.
Arisarum flowering plants are part of the Araceae family.

The calla lily provides a good visual example of the general parts of a Araceae plant. The curving white petal which surrounds the tubular, yellow fuzzy stem is actually the bract, and is not a petal but a white leaf. The fuzzy stem is the inflorescence, or spadix. It appears fuzzy because of the tiny flowers clustered on it.

Additionally, these species all contain calcium oxalate in crystal form, which causes skin irritation when sap gets on skin. Though some species can be eaten when cooked, species should never be eaten raw because of the calcium oxalate. For example, the species Dieffenbachia picta is commonly called dumb cane because eating the raw stems is said to make a person lose his or her voice. There have been some reports of consuming the raw plant causing death in small children.

The "mouse tail plant" is a member of the Araceae family.
The "mouse tail plant" is a member of the Araceae family.

Though medicinal uses of Araceae species are no longer apparent, there is evidence that the Native Americans used some species for medicine. In Asian countries, species are often used for food, even subsistence crops. The United States, however, generally uses the plants for ornamental purposes.

Though taxonomy is under debate, in 1997 seven subfamilies in Araceae were recognized. Only three of the subfamilies, containing about seven genera, are found in the United States. Genera may be endemic, such as Peltandra, or transplanted, like Arisaema, which is native to Europe and Asia. One genus holds a well known flower in the US: the calla lily, Zantedeschia aethiopica.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Araceae and where can it be found?

Araceae, commonly known as the arum family, is a diverse group of monocotyledonous flowering plants that includes over 100 genera and about 3,000 species. They are widespread, with members found in habitats ranging from rainforests to swamps in both tropical and temperate zones. Araceae species are particularly abundant in the tropics, where they contribute significantly to the biodiversity.

What are some common characteristics of Araceae plants?

Araceae plants are known for their unique inflorescence, called a spadix, which is often surrounded by a leaf-like bract called a spathe. They typically have large leaves and can grow in a variety of forms, including as epiphytes, terrestrials, and aquatics. Many have rhizomes or tubers, and some are known for their distinctive, sometimes unpleasant, odors during flowering.

Are there any well-known plants in the Araceae family?

Yes, the Araceae family includes several well-known plants such as the peace lily (Spathiphyllum), philodendron, and the titan arum (Amorphophallus titanum), which produces the largest unbranched inflorescence in the world. The titan arum is also famous for its strong odor, which resembles that of rotting flesh and attracts pollinators like flies.

How do Araceae plants reproduce?

Araceae plants reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction occurs through the pollination of the spadix, which can involve complex interactions with specific pollinators that are attracted by the plant's scent, heat production, and coloration. Asexual reproduction is common through vegetative means such as offsets, tubers, or rhizomes, allowing for rapid clonal propagation.

Are any Araceae species important to humans?

Several Araceae species hold economic and cultural importance. For instance, the genus Colocasia includes taro, a staple food crop in many tropical regions. Additionally, many species are popular ornamental plants, valued for their striking foliage and unique flowers. Some, like the pothos (Epipremnum aureum), are also noted for their air-purifying qualities in indoor environments.

Is it true that some Araceae plants are toxic?

Yes, many Araceae plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic if ingested. These crystals can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. It's important for pet owners and parents of young children to be aware of the potential toxicity of these plants and to keep them out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

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    • The calla lily is a member of the araceae family.
      By: cvalle
      The calla lily is a member of the araceae family.
    • Arisarum flowering plants are part of the Araceae family.
      By: Mauro Rodrigues
      Arisarum flowering plants are part of the Araceae family.
    • The "mouse tail plant" is a member of the Araceae family.
      The "mouse tail plant" is a member of the Araceae family.