Homalomena occupies a quieter corner of the aroid family than its louder cousins — the philodendrons and monsteras that have taken over social media feeds. But collectors have long valued it for its lush, clumping habit and for the curious anise scent that rises from the leaves when they are disturbed. Native to the forests of southern Asia and the Southwest Pacific, the genus comprises hundreds of species, ranging from compact houseplant-sized plants to sprawling understory giants. The heart-shaped or spade-shaped leaves may be solid deep green or variegated in shades of light and dark green with yellow, and the undersides often carry red tones that add an unexpected richness.

As a houseplant or container specimen, Homalomena is reliably easy given two conditions: warmth and humidity. It will not tolerate cold drafts, and if the air is persistently dry, spider mites and scale will find it before long. Daily misting or a pebble tray helps, as does keeping it away from heating vents. It prefers filtered light to outright shade and well-drained soil that stays evenly moist. Division or stem cuttings are both reliable means of propagation. Note that all parts of the plant are toxic to pets and people if ingested.