Araceae
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum kochii)
Spathiphyllum kochii
Prefers low to medium indirect light, away from direct sun. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy, watering once the top layer starts to dry. Enjoys high humidity and temperatures between 65-85ยฐF (18-29ยฐC). Toxic to humans and pets due to calcium oxalate crystals โ keep away from children and animals.
Every 7 days
Partial shade
18ยฐ - 29ยฐC
50% - 70%
Categories
What is Peace Lily?
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum kochii) is a easy-care plant from the Araceae family. Spathiphyllum kochii, commonly known as the peace lily, is a compact evergreen perennial in the Araceae family, native to Colombia. Growing 30-40 cm tall, it forms dense clumps of dark green, wavy, lance-shaped leaves with prominent veins. Its signature white spathe curls elegantly around a creamy c...
Peace Lily grows up to 40cm, spread of 40cm, watering every 7 days, 18ยฐC โ 29ยฐC, 50โ70% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Peace Lily tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 14 days.
How to Care for Peace Lily?
TLDR: Peace Lily needs Partial shade, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 18-29ยฐC with 50-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Peace Lily?
Water about once a week, whenever the top couple of inches of soil feel dry. Drooping leaves are a clear thirst signal and the plant bounces back quickly after watering.
How Much Light Does Peace Lily Need?
Thrives in medium indirect light and tolerates low light, though it will flower less. Avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
What Is the Best Soil for Peace Lily?
Use a rich, well-draining organic potting mix โ blend peat or coco coir with perlite or bark for good aeration.
What Pot Should You Use for Peace Lily?
Ceramic or plastic pot with drainage holes; peace lilies actually flower better when slightly root-bound, so avoid oversized pots.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Misting
Every 7 days
Rotate
Every 14 days
Repot
Every 365 days
What Is Peace Lily and Where Does It Come From?
Spathiphyllum kochii, commonly known as the peace lily, is a compact evergreen perennial in the Araceae family, native to Colombia. Growing 30-40 cm tall, it forms dense clumps of dark green, wavy, lance-shaped leaves with prominent veins. Its signature white spathe curls elegantly around a creamy cylindrical spadix, typically blooming in spring and summer. It is one of the world's most popular houseplants, prized for its shade tolerance and air-purifying qualities.
How to Propagate Peace Lily?
Clump division
Divide in spring while the plant is actively growing, and use clean tools to avoid contamination.
- 1 Remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil from the roots
- 2 Separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure each has healthy roots and leaves
- 3 Plant each section in its own pot with a light, well-draining mix
- 4 Water thoroughly and keep in indirect light until established
Materials needed:
How Big Does Peace Lily Grow?
TLDR: Peace Lily can reach up to 40cm tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
40cm
Spread
40cm
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Air Purifying
Improves air quality
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Peace Lily?
TLDR: Peace Lily is susceptible to 7 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Meaning & Symbolism
A symbol of peace, purity, and hope; traditionally given at funerals and times of loss as a gesture of comfort and renewal.
Fun Facts
It is one of the most effective houseplants for purifying indoor air, according to a NASA study.
Leaves that droop from thirst fully recover just a few hours after watering.
The white "flower" is not a petal but a modified leaf called a spathe.
It is native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia.
Frequently asked questions
Is the peace lily toxic to cats and dogs?
How often should I water my peace lily?
Why isn't my peace lily flowering?
Can I keep my peace lily in a low-light room?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | โ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | โ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | โ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | โ |