Peace Lily
spathiphyllum cannifolium
Also known as: ["Peace Lily","Cane-Leaf Peace Lily"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen herbaceous plant with glossy, dark green leaves and white spathe flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Spathiphyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Spathiphyllum cannifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid room with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to bright indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging, and ensure proper drainage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid placing near vents; maintain stable room temperature; mist leaves in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing; apply after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes during repotting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove plant from pot, separate rhizomes with roots, repot divisions in fresh soil.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Standard potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not necessary for rhizome division.
Timeline
Immediate establishment if divisions are healthy; new growth within weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, clean pot, potting mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots; water lightly after repotting; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or dead leaves to maintain appearance and health; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove damaged leaves, cut cleanly, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare soil, inspect roots, repot carefully, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate from drafts, and reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently in hot weather.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, rinse tools.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of Spathiphyllum cannifolium. The calcium oxalate crystals can cause severe irritation to the oral cavity and digestive tract, potentially leading to systemic distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Spathiphyllum cannifolium can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause significant discomfort and may necessitate veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSpathiphyllum cannifolium contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling upon ingestion. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with the normal functioning of the digestive and respiratory systems, leading to discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spathiphyllum cannifolium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water my Peace Lily?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does Spathiphyllum cannifolium need direct sunlight?
A: No, it thrives in low to medium indirect light and prefers shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to bright indire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store