Whether you're nurturing a Monstera, training a climbing Philodendron, or caring for your first orchid, you’ve probably noticed some strange roots growing from the stem or out of the pot. Meet the aerial root—a misunderstood yet vital part of many tropical and climbing plants. At Urbane Eight, we’re here to demystify these funky appendages so you can grow with confidence.
What Are Aerial Roots?
Aerial roots are roots that grow above ground, often from stems or branches, rather than underground like typical roots. They may look like tentacles or woody strings, but they’re perfectly natural and surprisingly helpful.
These roots are common in epiphytic and climbing plants—species that grow on other trees or surfaces in the wild and need extra support or help absorbing nutrients and moisture from the air.
Which Plants Commonly Have Aerial Roots?
You’ll frequently see aerial roots on:
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Orchids (like Phalaenopsis)
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Climbing or trailing tropicals in general
If you grow any of these plants indoors, spotting aerial roots is a sign your plant is healthy and following its natural instincts.
What Is the Function of Aerial Roots?
Aerial roots serve several important functions:
1. Anchoring and Climbing
In their native tropical habitats, plants like Monstera use aerial roots to attach to trees or rocks, helping them climb toward sunlight.
2. Absorbing Moisture and Nutrients
In humid environments for some plants, aerial roots can absorb water vapor and nutrients from the air—especially important for epiphytic plants like orchids.
3. Supporting the Plant
As a plant grows large and heavy, aerial roots can help stabilize the structure, like natural scaffolding.
What Not to Do With Aerial Roots
While cutting one or two won’t usually harm your plant, but these are made for support for your plant so if you add a moss pole and encourage the aerial roots to climb, you plant will be happier.
How to Train and Use Aerial Roots
Instead of fighting them, embrace your plant’s growth habits! Here's how to make aerial roots work with your plant care routine:
Use a Moss Pole
Moss poles mimic a tree trunk and encourage climbing. Aerial roots will grip and grow into the pole, helping your plant stand tall and look more dramatic.
Secure Roots Gently
Use soft plant ties or Velcro plant tape to loosely attach stems with aerial roots to a support. Over time, the roots will cling on naturally.
Mist or Keep Humid
Higher humidity will activate aerial root growth and boost absorption. Consider grouping plants or using a humidifier near tropical climbers.
Bonus Tip: Propagate With Aerial Roots
Aerial roots make propagation even easier! Snip a vine just below a node with an aerial root, and you’ve got a head start on your next plant baby.
FAQs About Aerial Roots
Q: Are aerial roots a sign something is wrong?
A: No! They're normal, especially in humid conditions or as the plant matures.
Q: Should I put aerial roots in soil?
A: Not necessary unless you're propagating. Most aerial roots aren’t meant to live underground.
Q: Can I wrap them around the moss pole?
A: Yes! Gently wrap and secure them with plant tape or pins and mist them—they’ll grip naturally over time.
Q: My orchid has crazy roots! What should I do?
A: Leave them alone and increase humidity. They’re absorbing water from the air and helping the plant thrive.
Support Your Climber: Shop Moss Poles & Tropical Vines at Urbane Eight
At Urbane Eight, we carry everything you need to help your aerial-rooted plants thrive:
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Moss poles and supports
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Humidity-loving tropicals like Monstera, Philodendron, and Pothos
Let those aerial roots climb, cling, and flourish the way nature intended.
Final Thought
Aerial roots aren’t weird—they’re wonderful. Think of them as your plant’s way of reaching out for support, water, stability and a sign of healthy natural growth. By understanding their role, you’ll give your plants the confidence to grow taller, stronger, and healthier.
Ready to elevate your plant game? Visit Urbane Eight today and give your green companions the tools they need to thrive.
