Arouma Plant Care

Arouma (Ischnosiphon arouma) belongs to the Marantaceae family within the Ischnosiphon genus. Arouma is native to wet, tropical areas within the Lesser Antilles, as well as Central and South America.

Arouma displays a clumping, low rosette growth habit, reaching up to 5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Arouma produces small, white flowers with colorful bracts.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Ischnosiphon arouma requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Arouma thrives in bright indirect to medium light. Avoid placing Arouma in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Ischnosiphon arouma grows best at temperatures of 65–80°F. Arouma prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, rich potting mix with added perlite and peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Arouma to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Arouma every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Arouma can be propagated through division, rhizome cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to white-grey ischnosiphon plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Arouma is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, mealybugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Arouma grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 11a. Arouma is native to wet, tropical areas within the Lesser Antilles, as well as Central and South America. In cooler regions, grow Arouma as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.