Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) Care Guide
The peace lily, scientifically known as Spathiphyllum, is a popular indoor plant and houseplant known for its elegant white blooms and glossy green leaves. Also commonly called the peace plant, this indoor houseplant is cherished for its adaptability and air-purifying qualities. Peace lilies are widely used in homes, offices, and interior plant care programs, making them a reliable choice for indoor plants in Wellington and surrounding areas.
Plant Identification
Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum
Common Names: Peace lily, peace plant
Types and Varieties
Some common varieties of the peace lily include:
Spathiphyllum ‘Mauna Loa’ – tall with large leaves and long-lasting white flowers
Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’ – large foliage, ideal as a statement indoor plant
Spathiphyllum ‘Wallisii’ – smaller, more compact variety, great for tabletops and small spaces
Growth Habit and Foliage Characteristics
Peace lilies have a clumping growth habit with broad, glossy leaves that arch gracefully. The plant produces elegant white blooms, often called spathes, that rise above the foliage on sturdy stems. This makes the peace lily an attractive choice for display in hanging baskets, pots, or interior plant arrangements.
Importance as an Indoor Houseplant
Peace lilies are favored among indoor plants and houseplants for their resilience, low maintenance, and air-purifying properties. They are suitable for homes, offices, and professional indoor plant care services, making them a popular choice for interior plant care in Wellington. Their elegant appearance and ease of care also make them a favorite among plant caretakers and indoor plant enthusiasts.
Care Level
Care Requirement: Easy to moderate care
Peace lily care is generally easy, but they are sensitive to overwatering and low light conditions. With proper attention, they thrive indoors and reward the caretaker with healthy foliage and beautiful blooms.
Plant Care Guide
Watering Schedule
Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Early signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and root rot. Early signs of underwatering include drooping leaves and slowed growth.
Light Requirements
Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate medium to low light indoors.
Too much light can cause leaf scorch or faded blooms, while too little light can reduce flowering and slow growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Ideal temperatures range from 65–80°F. Peace lilies prefer moderate to high humidity, making them suitable for bathrooms or areas with higher moisture levels.
Pests and Problems
Major Pests
Occasionally, peace lilies may attract:
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Aphids
Household Pest Control
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth regularly. For infestations, use diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap. Routine checks by a plant caretaker prevent pest spread to other houseplants.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove yellow or dead leaves at the base. Trim spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Minimal pruning helps maintain a tidy appearance.
Repotting and Soil
Repot every 12–18 months or when the plant outgrows its container. Use well-draining indoor plant potting mix. Spring is ideal for repotting to support active growth.
Fertilization
Fertilize during spring and summer.
Organic options: compost tea, diluted fish emulsion, or worm castings.
Conventional fertilization: balanced slow-release fertilizer formulated for indoor plants, applied according to package directions.
Â
Additional Care Notes
- Peace lilies are non-toxic to humans but can be mildly toxic to pets if ingested.
- Rotate the plant regularly for even growth and foliage distribution.
- Peace lily plant care and how to take care of a peace lily indoors are simple, making this plant a favorite for indoor plant enthusiasts, professional plant caretakers, and interior plant care in Wellington.