Spathiphyllum, commonly known as peace lilies, are symbols of rebirth and transcendence, peace and hope. Their poignant message is perfectly emulated through their delicate, airy leaves and pure white, symmetrical flowers. Popular gifts for those in need of solace, peace lilies immediately instill a sense of calm and order. Whether it’s honoring an ending or celebrating a new beginning, peace lilies are a fitting gift for any occasion.
These flowering plants are native to the tropical regions of the Americas and southeast Asia. Their blooms consist of a single yellow spike called a spadix, surrounded by a white hood called a spathe.
Peace lilies are riparian, often found growing naturally along waterways. In light of this information, you can surmise that they like to stay moist. Do your best to inflict a regimented watering schedule, sometimes consisting of watering twice a week! A helpful quality about peace lilies is that they will noticeably droop when they need water. We love when plants give us hints! Especially when combined with being forgiving. A peace lily is one of the best “comeback” plants as we say at Moonfire. Another reason they make great gifts. No one likes to be responsible for killing a gift. This houseplant makes it easy to be successful.
Take a basic indoor potting mix and spice it up with a few handfuls of moss, vermiculite and coir to cook up the perfect peace lily blend. When the first few inches of the soil are dry, you’ll know it’s time to water. While these stately plants are tolerant of low light, you’ll notice robust growth, color and flowering if they are stationed in a bright window. Direct light is too intense, but a home in an East or North window will provide the gentle kiss of sunlight to bring out the best in your lily.
Regular pruning is a necessary part of keeping your peace lily healthy. Bushy plants such as these commonly need to reallocate energy to different parts of the plant, namely new leaves and flowers. As a result, older or weaker leaves, often towards the bottom or middle of the plant will brown and wither. Simply prune these away and take some weight off your lily’s shoulders!
