Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

Peace Lily

Spathiphyllum wallisii

A graceful shade-lover that purifies the air with its elegant white spathes. Evergreen herbaceous perennial; other names: white sails, spathe flower.

Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; highly sensitive to chlorine in tap water.
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Temperature Prefers warm temperatures and high humidity; protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
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Characteristics

  • Leaves: Glossy, dark green, ovate to lanceolate, with prominent depressed veins, emerging directly from the base;
  • Flowers: Inflorescence consists of a central pale yellow spadix surrounded by a prominent white, hood-like spathe;
  • Stem: Rhizomatous, typically stemless above ground, forming dense clumps.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, keeping it evenly moist but never soggy.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.. Do not over-fertilize, as excess salts will accumulate and burn the roots and leaf tips.

Banana Peel Tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 24-48 hours, strain, and use the liquid to water the plant. The potassium helps promote blooming. Avoid leaving raw peels on the soil surface to prevent fungus gnats and mold.
Pruning
  • Remove yellow or brown leaves at the base of the stem using sterilized shears;
  • Cut back spent flower stalks to the base to redirect energy into new growth;
  • Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Toxic per ASPCA: intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.

Humans: Contains insoluble calcium oxalates; chewing or ingesting can cause oral irritation and a burning sensation.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: In Western culture, the Peace Lily symbolizes peace, purity, and rebirth. Because of its elegant white blooms and serene appearance, it is frequently gifted as a gesture of sympathy and condolence after the loss of a loved one.

Usage: Widely cultivated as an indoor ornamental plant; renowned for its ability to filter indoor air pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.