Description
Spathiphyllum is a genus of the arum family from tropical South America. About 85 species are known.
The peace lily is a houseplant with beautiful leaves and equally decorative flowers.
It has lance-shaped green leaves that spread in all directions from a common centre. The spadix-shaped inflorescences on long stems, surrounded by a white spathe, resemble those of anthurium. They stay decorative for a long time, slowly turning green. They are suitable as cut flowers and last very well after cutting. Flowers appear all summer, and larger plants produce more of them. The plant may also flower in winter if it has high air humidity.
Requirements
The compost should be fertile and humus-rich. The plant likes moderate temperatures: 18–25°C in summer, minimum 16°C in winter. It grows best in shady places; in too bright a spot the leaves turn pale green and the plant grows slowly.
Propagation
It is easiest to propagate by dividing large plants. It can also be grown from seed sown in a propagator under film or glass at 21°C.
Care
Water moderately with soft water at room temperature. Overwatering makes the leaves turn yellow and wilt. The plant likes high air humidity and misting in hot weather. Pruning is not needed.
In summer feed every 2 weeks with a small dose of dissolved compound fertiliser. In winter the plant needs misting, and it is also good to stand the pot in a larger container of constantly moist peat. Wipe dusty leaves with a damp cloth. Repot every year in February–March.
Before you buy
When buying a peace lily, choose a flowering plant with many flower buds and intensely green, glossy leaves.