perennial

Peace Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Spathiphyllum floribundum is a clump-forming, evergreen herbaceous perennial native to northwestern South America, characterized by its glossy, dark green, lanceolate leaves with prominent parallel veins. The inflorescence consists of a creamy-white to yellowish spadix subtended by a distinctive white, leaf-like spathe that matures to a pale green over time.

This species is distinguished by its compact, arching growth habit and new foliage that emerges bright vibrant green before hardening to a deep forest green. Under optimal indoor conditions, it produces its distinctive white sails in flushes year-round, with the heaviest bloom occurring from spring through summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces elegant white spathes that contrast beautifully against glossy, deep green foliage year-round.

Serves as an adaptable, shade-tolerant indoor plant that clearly signals water needs by wilting slightly.

Provides minimal outdoor wildlife value, though it is primarily kept indoors where it does not interact with native fauna.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30"

Width

24"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Northwestern South America

Toxicity

Toxic to humans, cats, and dogs

Bloom period

Year round

In flower about 12 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a rich, organic-matter-heavy potting mix based on peat or bark that provides excellent drainage.
Position the plant in bright, indirect light or partial to deep shade, ensuring it is completely shielded from direct afternoon sun.
Water thoroughly whenever the top layer of soil begins to dry, keeping the medium evenly moist but never waterlogged.
Maintain a warm environment above 50°F (10°C) and provide high humidity through regular misting or grouping with other plants.

Pro Tip

Keep the plant slightly root-bound in its container to stimulate heavier blooming; shifting it into an oversized pot stalls flower production and increases the risk of root rot from excess moisture in uncolonized soil.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water promptly when the foliage begins to show slight signs of wilting.
Wipe the broad leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
Use a highly porous, free-draining container with adequate drainage holes.

Don't

Do not expose the plant to direct sunlight, which quickly scorches and burns the foliage.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which causes salt accumulation and brown leaf tips.
Never allow the pot to sit in standing water, as this leads to root rot.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Indoor HouseplantShaded Patio ContainerTropical Understory Planting

Companion Plants

Aspidistra elatior

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Peace Lily questions

What zones can Peace Lily grow in?

Peace Lily is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Peace Lily bloom?

Peace Lily typically blooms in year round through year round. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Peace Lily need full sun?

Peace Lily does best in part shade.