Peace Lily

Family: Arums/Araceae

Genus: Spathiphyllum

Botanical Name: Spathiphyllum Wallisii

Difficulty: Easy to care for

Peace Lilies are tropical, evergreen plants that thrive on the forest floor. These plants receive dappled sunlight and consistent moisture and humidity when they are in nature. They are not hard to take care of, and they are beautiful as well! However, they are toxic to animals.

Light

Place your peace lily in bright indirect light. They will burn very quickly if you let them sit in direct light.

Water

You should only let the topsoil dry before watering. When it’s time to water, evenly soak the soil until water comes from the drainage holes.

Climate

Keep temperatures 60-70 degrees and humidity levels high. They do best at levels higher than household humidity, which are around 45%.

Soil

When it comes to soil, it is best to use well-draining, all-purpose potting soil. It should be able to hold moisture and dry out slowly over time.

Pests and Diseases

Dramatic and reactive plants like the peace lily tend to attract spider mites, mealybugs, and scale.

Tips

  • Keep peace lilies in a spot that gets bright, indirect light. ( an east-facing window)

  • Consistency is key when it comes to watering. Keep the soil lightly moist to the touch.

  • Peace lilies are sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water, such as fluoride.

Signs your plant is unhappy

  • Brown leaf tips - chemicals in water

  • Yellow, wilting foilage - overwatering

  • Droopy leaves - under watering

Propagation

Peace lilies can not be propagated via leaf or stem cuttings, but they can be propagated by division. The crowns are what will be separated from the mail plant and become additional individual plants.

Fun facts

  • Well known for its air-purifying abilities

  • The lilies are a symbol of peace and prosperity

  • Can live up to five years in good conditions

Hardiness Zones

Peace lilies can survive in hardiness zones of 10-11, so they are typically kept as houseplants in most households.

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Common Houseplants that are Sensitive to Tap Water