Araceae

Defining Characteristics

• Inflorescence a spadix (fleshy spike bearing tiny flowers) enclosed or subtended by a spathe (modified bract )
• Leaves often large, with net-like or parallel venation; petioles long, frequently with a sheathing base
• Many species contain calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) causing irritation if ingested
• Growth forms diverse: terrestrial herbs, epiphytes , rheophytes, climbers, floating aquatics, and submersed aquatics
• Fruit usually a berry
• Latex or mucilage often present

Notable Genera

• Philodendron (philodendrons)
• Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)
• Alocasia and Colocasia (elephant ears, taro)
• Cryptocoryne (water trumpets — aquatic)
• Anubias (anubias — aquatic)
• Lemna and Wolffia (duckweeds — the smallest flowering plants)
• Anthurium (anthuriums)
• Spathiphyllum (peace lily)

Notes

One of the most diverse plant families in growth form — includes the world's smallest flowering plants (Wolffia, <1 mm) and plants with the largest unbranched inflorescence (Amorphophallus titanum). Many important houseplants (Monstera, Philodendron, Pothos). Several genera are staple aquarium plants (Cryptocoryne, Anubias, Bucephalandra). Taro (Colocasia esculenta) is a major food crop in the tropics. Calcium oxalate crystals make many species toxic if eaten raw.