Araceous is an adjective that refers to plants belonging to the family Araceae, commonly known as the aroids. Some synonyms for araceous include aroid, arum-family plant, and arrowroot family plant. Aroids are characterized by their distinctive flowers, which are surrounded by a colorful spathe. They are cultivated for ornamental use, and some species are also grown for their edible roots and leaves. Other synonyms for araceous include caladium, elephant ear, and taro. The family Araceae includes more than two thousand species, including some important agricultural crops such as yams and sweet potatoes. It is a diverse and fascinating group of plants with a long history of human use.