Spathiphyllum

( spath - ih - FYE - lum )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of plants is known as Peace Lily or Spath, and produces plants with large glossy green leaves and flower spikes with large spathes which can be white, yellowish, or greenish. They are native to tropical rainforests and humid forest understories in Central and South America as well as Asia. They are commonly kept as houseplants in cooler regions, but in tropical zones can be cultivated outdoors as mass plantings, tropical interest in mixed beds and borders, shade-tolerant groundcover, around water features, or in containers. Take care when planting Peace Lily in the garden or cultivating it indoors, as plant parts are mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Spathiphyllum Species and Varietals

The genus Spathiphyllum includes 47 species, and is a member of the plant family Araceae. The plants in this genus are related to those in Scindapsus (Satin Pothos), Raphidophora (Mini Monstera), Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant) and Epipremnum (Pothos). The genus name means 'Spathe-Leaf'. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum (Peace Lily, Cupido Peace Lily, Cuna de Moisés, Espatifilo, Bandera Blanca, Chile de Gato, Olotillo, Viborilla, Hoja de Miel, Gusano)
Native to southern Mexico, this species is commonly cultivated as a houseplant The species was originally described by Frederik Michael Liebmann as being a member of another genera, but was eventually formally added to Spathiphyllum. Water only when soil feels completely dry and the plant begins to show signs of wilting, and then provide a deep soaking. Provide bright, indirect light and avoid direct sunlight as it will burn the foliage.

Spathiphyllum floribundum (Snowflower, Peace Lily)
These plants are native to northwestern South America, and has large oval to lanceolate leaves that are green and glossy. Flower spikes are commonly light yellow to cream and spathes are white to greenish. Plants in this species can reach up to between 1 and 2 feet tall on average and just as wide. Spathes can reach 8 inches long, and flowers are held atop slender green stems.

Spathiphyllum wallisii (White Sails, Peace Lily, Spathe Flower, Wallisii Peace Lily)
Named after famous German plant collector Gustav Wallis, this species was first formally described in 1877 and is a very popularly-cultivated ornamental houseplant. Small flowers appear along a spike protected by a white spathe, as in many other species in the genus. Individual plants can reach up to 12 to 36 inches tall and have a spread of 1 to 2.5 feet wide.

'Bellini'
Compact to 20 in.

'Chopin'
To 20 inches tall. Classic look.

'Domino'
Green leaves gently splashed and mottled with silver and cream.

'Picasso'
Rare form with green and white marbled leaves.

Caring for Spathiphyllum

Take care when planting Peace Lily in the garden or cultivating it indoors, as plant parts are mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested. These plants prefer to be planted in partial to deep shade outdoors, requiring complete protection from hot, direct sunlight that will burn and scorch leaves. Choose a space in the garden that has some protection from strong winds, which can dry out and damage foliage as well. Spathiphyllum plants prefer soil that is light and well-draining. A mix of 50% coco coir or peat moss, 25% perlite, 15% Orchid bark, and 10% compost or worm castings is an ideal blend. Top soil with an organic mulch, keeping it away from stems and leaves to prevent rot. Water newly planted Peace Lilies regularly as they establish a strong root system in their new home. At maturity, these plants still like to have some moisture in the soil around their roots, but like to have the top inch of soil dry out completely between waterings. To prune, simply cut away any yellowing or dead leaves and spent flower stalks using sharp, clean shears or snips. Spathiphyllum plants can be expected to survive in the landscape for 5 to 7 years before needing to be replaced.

Growing Spathiphyllum in Containers
Container cultivation of Spathiphyllum plants allows for them to be brought inside to overwinter in cooler zones. Choose a container that has adequate drainage holes and that is at least two inches larger in diameter than the nursery pot. Use well-draining potting soil to fill in the bottom, and then place the plant in the container and fill in more soil around the outside of the root ball, being careful to not pack it down too much. Peace Lilies do well in a mix of 50% coco coir or peat moss, 25% perlite, 15% Orchid bark, and 10% compost or worm castings. Water new plantings regularly as they establish a strong root system. At maturity, these plants still like to have some moisture in the soil around their roots, but like to have the top inch of soil dry out completely between waterings. To prune, simply cut away any yellowing or dead leaves and spent flower stalks using sharp, clean shears or snips. Every few years in springtime, check to see if the plant is outgrowing its pot. Choose a new pot that is about two inches larger with sufficient drainage holes, and repot. In cool zones, bring the container indoors or into a greenhouse during the winter, and place it back into the garden again when temperatures remain above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Growing Spathiphyllum Indoors
Spathiphyllum plants are commonly available at many plant nurseries and other retailers. Because they are native to tropical and subtropical areas, they are commonly grown indoors as houseplants or in greenhouses in many regions around the globe. Choose a container that has adequate drainage holes, and place it in an area that receives bright indirect light. Ensure that humidity can stay between 40% and 60%; very dry air can stress the plant and cause foliage to wither. Water new plantings regularly as they establish a strong root system. At maturity, these plants still like to have some moisture in the soil around their roots, but like to have the top inch of soil dry out completely between waterings. To prune, simply cut away any yellowing or dead leaves and spent flower stalks using sharp, clean shears or snips. Every few years in springtime, check to see if the plant is outgrowing its pot. Choose a new pot that is about two inches larger with sufficient drainage holes, and repot. Indoor-grown Spathiphyllum plants typically survive 3 to 5 years on average, but can thrive for decades with proper care before needing to be replaced.

Propagation

Spathiphyllum, or Peace Lily, can be easily propagated by dividing existing plants. These plants will naturally form clumps over time and grow wider,

Propagating Spathiphyllum by Division
This type of propagation is relatively simple; you will need a clean shovel, mulch, fresh soil, compost and pots (only necessary if you will be saving divided plants for transporting elsewhere). Division is best done in early spring (after the plant has entered dormancy, but before it has begun its new spring growth), and needs to be done every few years regardless of whether you have the goal of propagating the plants for best performance, especially if . To propagate by division, follow these steps:

Using a shovel, dig up your existing plant. Start from the outside and work your way in to avoid damaging the root(s). Once you have worked it up out of the ground, lay it out.
Start to tease apart the roots with your fingers. Once the roots are untangled, separate your plant into segments, ensuring that each one has at least one thick root section attached.
Prepare your pot(s) or new planting site(s) with amended, well-draining soil. You can either bring in new soil or simply amend your existing soil with compost to complete this task. Then, plant your divisions and water thoroughly.
Apply a thick layer of mulch over the new planting to protect it from cold weather as it acclimates to its new home. Then, enjoy watching it sprout in the next growing season.