Peace Lily
Overview
The Spathiphyllum wallisii, commonly known as Peace Lily, is a tropical plant valued for its lush foliage and pristine white spathes. It excels indoors in indirect sunlight and requires a warm, humid atmosphere, mimicking its forest floor origins. With benefits including air purification, this ornamental beauty is low-maintenance, adaptable, and a perfect addition for gardeners seeking a touch of tranquility.
Characteristics
Known for its glossy green leaves, unique white spathes that resemble flowers, and air-purifying qualities.
Region
Central America.
Natural Habitat
In the wild, it is found on the forest floor in tropical rainforests.
Cultivation
Prefers indirect sunlight, needs moist soil without being waterlogged, and thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Uses and Benefits
Peace Lilies enrich indoor spaces with remarkable benefits that extend far beyond their elegant appearance:
- Natural Air Purifier: These powerful plants excel at filtering indoor air pollutants, effectively removing common toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene3. Their air-cleaning abilities make them particularly valuable in modern homes and offices with limited ventilation.
- Humidity Regulation: Through natural transpiration, Peace Lilies release water vapor into the air, helping maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. This process can alleviate dry air symptoms and support respiratory health during dry seasons1.
- Stress Reduction: The presence of Peace Lilies can create a calming atmosphere, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Their serene white blooms and lush foliage contribute to a peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and mental well-being.
- Low Maintenance Benefits: These adaptable plants thrive in various light conditions and require minimal care, making them perfect for busy households. They also serve as natural indicators of watering needs by drooping slightly when thirsty2.
Living spaces can become healthier and more inviting with the addition of Peace Lilies. These versatile plants work continuously to purify air, balance humidity, and create a more harmonious indoor environment. Their combination of practical benefits and aesthetic appeal makes them an excellent choice for both home and office settings.
Cultivation Tips
Essential Peace Lily Growing Tips
- Create the right environment by placing your plant in a spot with 60-80% humidity and temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C)1. Consider using a pebble tray or humidifier in dry rooms.
- Position the plant 6-8 feet from a window with filtered light. Morning sun is ideal, but protect from harsh afternoon rays.
- Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Empty the drainage saucer after 30 minutes to prevent root rot.
- Use well-draining potting mix and containers with drainage holes. Add orchid bark or perlite to improve aeration.
- Feed monthly during growing season (spring-summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength2.
- Prune yellowing leaves at the base and remove spent flowers to encourage new growth.
- Clean leaves monthly with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their air-purifying ability3.
Pro Tip: When dividing established plants, ensure each section has 3-4 healthy leaves and several white roots. Allow divisions to heal for 24 hours before replanting in fresh soil.
Watch for leaf tips turning brown, which often indicates tap water sensitivity. Use filtered water or leave tap water out overnight before using.
Companion Planting
Ideal Companion Plants for Peace Lily
Creating a harmonious indoor garden with Peace Lily companions requires careful consideration of shared environmental needs. Several tropical plants make excellent neighbors thanks to their similar requirements for shade and humidity:
- Boston Ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata) – These classic houseplants share Peace Lily’s love of indirect light and moist conditions
- Heart-leaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) – Their trailing vines create beautiful contrasts with Peace Lily’s upright form
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) – Thrives in similar low-light conditions and adds varied foliage patterns
- Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura) – Offers complementary ground coverage with striking leaf patterns
When grouping these plants together, maintain 12-18 inches of space between specimens to ensure proper air circulation and prevent competition for nutrients. Consider creating a humidity-loving corner by:
- Placing plants on pebble trays filled with water
- Grouping plants together to create a natural humidity zone
- Using a small humidifier nearby during dry seasons
For optimal growth, position companions so taller plants don’t overshadow shorter ones. Avoid placing Peace Lilies near plants that prefer bright light or dry conditions, such as succulents or cacti, as their care requirements conflict. This thoughtful arrangement creates a thriving indoor tropical garden that benefits all plants through shared humidity and similar care needs.
Seasonal Considerations
Peace Lilies display distinct seasonal behaviors and care requirements throughout the year:
Spring (Growing Season)
- Increase watering frequency as growth accelerates
- Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly1
- Ideal time for dividing and repotting overgrown plants
- Watch for increased flower production
Summer Care
- Maintain higher humidity (65-80%) through regular misting
- Protect from air conditioning drafts
- Move away from windows during intense afternoon sun2
- Water more frequently during heat waves
Fall Adjustments
- Gradually reduce watering as growth slows
- Stop fertilizing until spring
- Clean leaves to maximize light absorption during shorter days
- Monitor humidity as indoor heating begins
Winter Requirements
- Keep temperatures above 65°F (18°C)1
- Water sparingly – only when top soil feels dry
- Maintain distance from cold windows and drafts
- Use a humidity tray if air becomes too dry
Year-round, ensure proper drainage and never let roots sit in standing water. Remove yellowed leaves and spent blooms promptly to maintain plant health and appearance. Flowering may naturally decrease during winter months but should resume with proper care when days lengthen.
Issues and Troubleshooting
- Avoid direct sunlight: Peace Lilies should be kept away from direct sun exposure, as this can lead to leaf scorching and damage to the plant’s foliage.5
- Monitor watering habits: Yellowing leaves may be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the plant is not sitting in water and has well-draining soil to prevent root rot.1
- Find the right watering balance: Wilting can occur from both underwatering and overwatering. To maintain optimal plant health, allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, ensuring the plant receives adequate moisture without being oversaturated.3
- Address brown leaf tips: If you notice brown tips on the leaves, this may indicate low humidity or excess fluoride in the water. To combat this issue, consider using filtered water and increasing humidity around the plant by misting or placing a humidifier nearby.1
- Encourage blooming: If your Peace Lily stops producing flowers, it may not be receiving enough light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light to stimulate blooming and maintain its vibrant appearance.2
- Regular pruning: To promote healthy growth and keep your Peace Lily looking its best, regularly trim away any dead or yellowing leaves. This will redirect the plant’s energy towards producing new, healthy foliage.3
History and Folklore
The Peace Lily’s cultural significance emerged in the late 20th century, though its symbolic meaning runs deep in modern spirituality and interior design. The plant’s name originated from its pristine white spathe resembling a flag of truce – a universal symbol of ceasefire and reconciliation.
During the 1970s, when indoor plants gained popularity, the Peace Lily became particularly meaningful across various cultures. It found its place in both celebration and mourning, especially in Western funeral traditions where it represents the transformation of the soul and comfort for the grieving.
Cultural Significance:
- Native American healers viewed white flowering plants as spiritual guides
- Asian traditions associate it with harmony and balanced energy flow
- Western cultures embrace it as a symbol of hope and new beginnings
In the 1980s, the Peace Lily gained additional recognition when NASA’s Clean Air Study highlighted its air-purifying abilities 1. This scientific validation added to its reputation as a plant of wellbeing and healing, further cementing its status as a meaningful gift for both joyous and solemn occasions.
References
1. “How to Grow and Care for Peace Lily Plants – The Spruce”, https://www.thespruce.com/grow-peace-lilies-1902767
2. “Peace lily care: how to grow peace lilies successfully – Homes & Gardens”, https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/peace-lily-care
3. “Best Peace Lily Care Tips + How to Grow Spathiphyllum Indoors”, https://balconygardenweb.com/peace-lily-care-plant-growing-tips/
4. “How to grow peace lily – BBC Gardeners World Magazine”, https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-peace-lily/
5. “How to Grow and Care for Peace Lily – Better Homes & Gardens”, https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/peace-lily/
Nicolas Duval
Nicolas is a passionate advocate for nature and the art of wildcrafting. His dedication shines through in Wildcraftia, a website he meticulously crafted to serve as a haven for nature enthusiasts worldwide. Driven by a deep appreciation for nature’s connection to humanity, Nicolas embarked on his journey in 2011 with SmokableHerbs, a platform showcasing his love for nature’s bounty. Building upon this foundation, he established Smokably, a thriving online store offering premium herbs and blends to a global audience.