Peace Lily
spathiphyllum wendlandii
Also known as: ["Peace Lily","Spathiphyllum","White Sail Plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen herbaceous plant native to Central and South America, known for its glossy leaves and white spathe flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Spathiphyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Spathiphyllum wendlandii |
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":"18–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter like peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead foliage accumulates.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing damaged or overgrown parts without drastically reducing size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; protect from direct sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to bright indirect light
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; ensure good drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, ideally 5.5–6.5.
Use peat-based mix, ensure good drainage, avoid heavy clay soils, maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions with slight tolerance for cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings with nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy rhizome or cutting, prepare medium, apply rooting hormone (if using), plant, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist sphagnum moss for rhizome division.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks for cuttings; rhizome divisions establish faster if healthy.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a node; trim leaves at their base.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain appearance and redirect energy to healthy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead/damaged parts, cut cleanly, avoid over-pruning, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare soil, inspect roots, trim if necessary, repot carefully, water lightly, adjust care.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting leaves excessively.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf browning at tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots, and avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures above 60°F (15°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Spathiphyllum wendlandii, primarily due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can result in severe oral and esophageal irritation, with potential for systemic effects in severe cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Spathiphyllum wendlandii can cause significant irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. The plant can lead to oral and gastrointestinal distress, with potential for more severe reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSpathiphyllum wendlandii contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling upon ingestion. The crystals can penetrate tissues, leading to discomfort and potential airway obstruction if swelling is severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spathiphyllum wendlandii 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 wendlandii purify air?
A: Yes, it is known to remove certain indoor air pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to bright indire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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