Peace Lily

Spathiphyllum is a genus of about 40 species of flowering plants commonly called ‘Peace Lily’. ‘Peace Lily’ is a herbaceous perennial typically grown as a houseplant. While it can grow up to 6 ft tall, it more typically grows to 3 ft in an indoor setting. It is popular as a specimen or accent in interior groupings for its deep-green glossy foliage and white blooms that are intermittent in medium lighting and long-lasting. The plant has no specific bloom time, but flowers freely and tolerates heavy shade.

The ‘Peace Lily’ does best indoors in moist, but not soggy, soil. You should allow the soil to dry between waterings, but not wilt, which causes the leaves to yellow. Use water that is at room temperature and has been allowed to sit so that the chlorine can evaporate. Spathiphyllum grow very well with sub-irrigation and also do well in lower light situations, but prefer bright filtered light. Do not place the plant in direct sun. Fertilize Spathiphyllum at one-quarter of the recommended strength. Over-fertilizing can produce burning of tips and roots. ‘Peace lilies’ enjoy warm conditions between 68 and 85F during the day and no more than a 10-degree drop at night. The plant requires a large pot and should be kept somewhat pot bound. Re-pot, if necessary in February or March.

The ‘Peace Lily’ remains acaulescent (appearing to have no stem) as it ages. This is a low-maintenance plant with beautiful glossy green leaves and the unusual ability to blossom in medium light. The pure white flower changes to pale green after 10 days and then remains lovely for at least another month. The NASA Clean Air Study found that Spathiphyllum cleans indoor air of certain environmental contaminants, including benzene and formaldehyde.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:

Cold and drafty conditions in the 40’s and 50’s will slow growth considerably. Extended periods below 40 can damage leaves, stems, and roots. Mealybugs are probably the most common insect indoors. Because of the wide foliage, cleaning the leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust will help its appearance and remove some pests which tend to gather under the bottom of the leaves.