re:climber for id 20080804_2
J.M. Garg
For my Birds, Butterflies, Trees, Landscape pictures etc., visit http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:Contributions/J.M.Garg
J.M. Garg
Philodendron is a large genus of flowering plants from the arum family (Araceae), consisting of close to 1000 or more species according to TROPICOS (a service of the Missouri Botanical Garden). Taxonomically it is still poorly known with many undescribed species. Many are grown as ornamental and indoor plants. The name derives from the Greek philo or "love" and dendron or "tree".
Philodendron species can be found in diverse habitats in tropical America and the West Indies. Most occur in humid tropical forests, but also in swamps, on river banks, roadsides and rock outcrops. They are shrubs and small trees, most of which are capable of clambering over other plants, or climbing the trunks of other trees with the aid of aerial roots.
Leaves are usually large and imposing, often lobed or deeply cut, and may be more or less pinnate. They are borne alternately on the stem. The have long aerial roots found in many shapes and sizes. The flower spathe may be borne terminally on a stem, or in a leaf axil. They are often fragrant. the flowers under good conditons are said to resemble Calla lilies. All parts of the plant are poisonous, due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
With regards,
J.M.Garg
"We often ignore the beauty around us"
For learning about our trees & plants, please visit/ join Google e-group (Indiantreepix) http://groups.google.co.in/group/indiantreepix?hl=en