tropical

Canna-leaf peace lily

Spathiphyllum cannifolium

The Story

Plant Bio

Spathiphyllum cannifolium, the canna-leaf peace lily, is an evergreen, clump-forming tropical perennial reaching two to three feet in height, distinguished by its broad, arching foliage. The large, glossy, dark green leaves feature prominent, sunken veins that closely resemble those of a Canna lily.

Unlike common peace lily hybrids, this species produces stiff, leathery leaves and a pale yellow to ivory-white spathe that opens flat or folds backward. The inflorescence features a slender, ivory-white spadix covered in bisexual flowers that emerge intermittently throughout the year under warm conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesFeatures striking, deeply veined foliage resembling Canna leaves and elegant white spathes.
Practical UsesServes as a durable, low-maintenance indoor foliage plant that tolerates lower light levels.
Ecological BenefitsProvides minimal outdoor ecological value in North America as it is grown strictly indoors.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tropical

Height

39"

Width

35"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

10

Water

Medium

Humidity

High (55%-75%)

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America, Caribbean

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Year round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 12 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a container with ample drainage holes and fill it with an organic-rich, free-draining tropical potting mix.
  2. Position the plant in medium to bright indirect light, strictly avoiding direct midday sun which scorches the glossy foliage.
  3. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil begins to dry, keeping the substrate evenly moist but never waterlogged.
  4. Maintain high indoor humidity between 55% and 75% to prevent the leaf tips from browning.

Pro Tip

Avoid keeping the potting mix constantly saturated; while native to wet tropical forests, this species requires sharp aeration and rapid drainage to prevent fatal root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Keep the potting mix consistently moist but well-aerated.
  • Provide bright, filtered light to encourage regular blooming.
  • Wipe the large leaves periodically with a damp cloth to remove dust.

Don't

  • Do not allow the plant to sit in standing water or soggy, compacted soil.
  • Never expose the foliage to direct, intense midday sunlight.
  • Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or dry heating vents.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Indoor HouseplantConservatory SpecimenShaded Patio Container

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Canna-leaf peace lily questions

What zones can Canna-leaf peace lily grow in?

Canna-leaf 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 Canna-leaf peace lily bloom?

Canna-leaf 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 Canna-leaf peace lily need full sun?

Canna-leaf peace lily does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Canna-leaf peace lily with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.