Peace Lilly Facts

Peace Lily Characteristics

• Mature peace lily plants typically reach between 1 and 4 feet in both height and width. The genus name Spathiphyllum comes from "spathi," which is the Greek word for sword; the elliptical, glossy green leaves inspired this name. Peace lily leaves rise directly from the root and reach up to 5 feet in length and 6 inches in width.

Peace Lily Flowers

• Peace lilies periodically produce beautiful flowers that bloom atop a single, sturdy stem; these slightly fragrant flowers look similar to calla lilies. The showy flowers emerge pale green and gradually turn pure white to creamy white. Flowers typically last for at least 30 days. Peace lilies are one of the few foliage plants that can blossom in medium lighting conditions. This plant also tolerates low lighting conditions, but probably will not flower. Do not place your peace lily plant in direct sunlight, because the leaves could sunburn.

Soil Conditions

• The peace lily thrives in most potting mixes as long as it has good drainage. Keep the soil moist, but don't overwater your peace lily or leave it in standing water. The Iowa State University Extension suggests watering your peace lily more often during flowering. The Missouri Botanical Gardens recommends allowing the water to sit until it's at room temperature; this gives any chlorine in the water time to evaporate. Indoor peace lily plants need very little fertilizing. Clemson University suggests using a liquid houseplant fertilizer every two or three months.

Climate for Peace Lilies

• Peace lilies prefer daytime temperatures ranging from 68 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures about 10 degrees cooler. Cold temperatures significantly slow down the plant's growth, and extended periods of temperatures 40 degrees Fahrenheit and below can damage the leaves, roots and stems. Make sure your indoor peace lilies are not sitting in cold drafts.

Peace Lily Problems

• Peace lily plants have few pest problems, although mealybugs, scales and mites occasionally occur. Stem and root diseases occasionally occur and typically come from overwatering your plant. Overfertilization can cause the edge of the leaves to turn brown. The large leaves frequently collect dust, so regularly wipe down the peace lily foliage with a damp cloth. Lack of blooming typically indicates insufficient lighting. Move your plants to a better-lighted area to promote flowering. Repot your peace lilies only when the plants crowd the container to the point where they become hard to water. Missouri Botanical Garden recommends repotting peace lilies in February or March.