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Plant Profiles / Peace lily
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Peace lily
Spathiphyllum wallisii and hybrids · Peace lily, spath
Glossy dark leaves and elegant white flowers that appear even in lower light. Peace lilies dramatically droop when thirsty, so you'll always know when to water.
Low to medium indirectLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Low to medium indirect
ShadeFull sun
Tolerates low light, but flowers best in medium to bright indirect light. Direct sun scorches leaves.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Keep soil lightly moist. Water when the top 2–3 cm dries or when the plant starts to droop.
Humidity
Average to high
LowHigh
Loves humidity; brown tips suggest dry air.
Temperature
18–29°C (65–85°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 12°C (54°F).
Growth
Moderate, clumping
SlowFast
Grows 40–90 cm tall depending on variety.
Soil
Moisture-retentive, well-draining
LeanRich
Use a quality indoor potting mix.
Fertiliser
Every 6 weeks
RarelyOften
Diluted balanced fertiliser in spring and summer.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Native to tropical American rainforest floors, peace lilies are adapted to shade. Their white 'flowers' are actually a modified leaf (spathe) surrounding a spike of tiny flowers. They bloom mainly in spring and summer.
Best spots
Living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and offices with medium light.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Spathiphyllum wallisii and hybrids |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | Tropical Americas |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 40–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Glossy, dark green lance-shaped leaves |
| Flowers | White spathes |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Flowering
Fertilise
Repot / divide
Active growthFloweringFertiliseRepot / divide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Dramatic drooping | Thirsty. Water thoroughly; it should perk up within hours. |
| No flowers | Not enough light. Move to a brighter spot. |
| Brown leaf tips | Low humidity or tap water minerals. |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering or natural ageing. |
| Green flowers | Normal as flowers age. |
Common questions
How do I get it to flower?
Give it more bright, indirect light and feed lightly in spring.
Should I cut off old flowers?
Yes. Cut the stalk at the base once the flower turns brown or green.
Is it a true lily?
No. It's an aroid and not related to true lilies, though it's still toxic to pets.
How often should I repot?
Every 1–2 years in spring.
