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Arrowhead plant

How to identify Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum)

Arrowhead plant, also known as American evergreen, Goosefoot

Arrowhead plant exhibits a dynamic climbing growth pattern, reaching lengths of up to 6 feet (approximately 1.8 meters). Its appearance is characterized by generously long-petioled leaves that may display a spectrum of colors, from vivid green to variegated patterns. The typical habit of this species is a lush, bushy structure complemented by an array of soft, cascading stems. While blooms are a rare spectacle when arrowhead plant is grown indoors, its foliage alone makes it a sought-after houseplant for enthusiasts. The leaves, noteworthy for their arrowhead shape, add to the plant's ornamental appeal.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Vine, Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Arrowhead plant

1

Climbing growth reaching 6 feet (1.8 meters)

2

Long-petioled leaves with various colors

3

Ornamental arrowhead-shaped leaves

4

Smooth, green succulent stem with adventitious roots

5

Egg-shaped cluster of small, red berries

Arrowhead plantArrowhead plantArrowhead plantArrowhead plantArrowhead plant

Detailed Traits of Arrowhead plant

Leaf Features

The leaves of arrowhead plant vary significantly in form throughout their development. Juvenile leaves are alternate, simple, and arrow-shaped, with a dark green upper surface and a lighter underside. Intermediate leaves are 3-lobed with a constricted median segment and a triangular basal segment. Adult leaves are divided into 3-11 segments, with obovate to elliptic median segments and auriculate lowermost segments, dark green above and paler beneath. Petioles are long, green to reddish-green, partially sheathing at the base.

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Flower Features

The flowers of arrowhead plant feature an axillary spathe cluster. The spathe, which encapsulates the shorter spadix, forms a boat-shaped tube. Colors range from green to yellow and white, occasionally marked with red or purple. The spathes typically overlap, giving a layered appearance. Each spathe is roughly 4 inches (10 cm) in length. The flowers do not emit a significant scent, and they bloom sporadically throughout the year.

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Stem Features

The stem of arrowhead plant is succulent and green, characterized by its climbing nature. It features a smooth texture and medium thickness, typically reaching diameters of 0.4 inches (1 cm). The stem readily produces adventitious roots, aiding its climbing ability. It grows in a somewhat zigzag pattern, allowing the plant to attach and ascend supporting structures efficiently. The vibrant green coloration and moist, fleshy feel are key identifying traits of this species' stem.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of arrowhead plant is distinguished by an egg-shaped conglomeration, comprising numerous round berries that collectively form a dense cluster. These berries transition from a green shade during their early development stages to a more red or sometimes orange hue as they mature. The individual berries are typically small, with each one measuring around 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) in diameter. The skin of these ripe berries often has a smooth, glossy appearance, and the berries are tightly packed on the inflorescence axis. While the fruit is a critical feature for species identification, it's generally not considered palatable for humans.

Arrowhead plant Fruit image
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Key Facts About Arrowhead plant

Attributes of Arrowhead plant
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Vine, Herb
Plant Height
91 cm to 1.8 m
Spread
30 cm to 60 cm
Leaf Color
Green
White
Silver
Flower Size
3.5 mm to 4 mm
Flower Color
Green
White
Cream
Fruit Color
Brown
Black
Copper
Stem Color
Green
Gray
Silver
White
Leaf type
Evergreen
The Toxicity of Arrowhead plant
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Scientific Classification of Arrowhead plant

Family
Arum
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Species
Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum)
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Distribution Map of Arrowhead plant

Arrowhead plant is native to central and south America,. It grows on forest floors, climbing tree trunks through the understory. It is appreciated as a houseplant and garden ornamental around the world, but has become invasive in the United States, South Africa, Singapore, and on various Caribbean and Pacific islands.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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