There are over 40 varieties of "Spathiphyllum" aka Peace Lilies, each with unique characteristics, but all sharing the signature white blooms and lush green foliage. Some of the most common include Spathiphyllum wallisii, a classic variety known for its graceful, arching leaves and delicate flowers, and Mauna Loa Supreme, a popular choice for its larger blooms and robust growth. Among the largest is Sensation Broad Leaf, which stands out with its dramatic, oversized leaves that can reach up to 20 inches long, giving it a bold, tropical presence.
While there are differences in each variety, the care instructions are generally very similar... so let's jump in!
Origin of the humble Peace Lily: A Brief Background
Peace lilies are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, particularly Colombia and Venezuela. They thrive in the warm, shaded understory of the jungle, where they absorb moisture from the humid air and grow in rich, well-draining soil. Discovered by European botanists in the 19th century, peace lilies quickly became popular houseplants due to their elegant white blooms, low-maintenance nature, and air-purifying qualities. Their name and serene appearance have made them symbols of peace, healing, and tranquility in many cultures.
Light Requirements for your Peace Lily
Peace Lilies can survive in a whole range of light levels, including spaces with minimal natural light. They are a fabulous option if you have low light in your home, particularly the large broad leaf variety - a wonderful solution if you're looking for a 'lush' plant to live happily in a dark corner! If in a lower-light position, you may notice your plant’s leaves leaning towards the light - simply rotate accordingly to straighten it up.
It is important to note that while it may tolerate darker areas, it also may not thrive. If the plant deems its position to be a spot with mediocre natural light, it may result in limited leaf growth or minimal flowers.
Watering Requirements for your Peace Lily
While they love water and will need regular soakings, the best way to avoid over-watering is to wait until the leaves physically droop. You will notice the plant will become very 'thirsty' looking and leaves feel slightly limp to touch. This means it is time to water. Give the plant a big drink - about 500ml - and ensure all the water is flowing through the pot and out the drain holes into the saucer. Depending on the conditions of the room, this can be every 4-7 days.
If the plant does not perk up in a day, take the plant and sit it in a shallow bucket of water (ensuring the bottom holes of the pot are covered with water). You will see the leaves perk right back up. If it still is not picking up, check for all other issues including pests and overwatering.
Ideal Humidity & Temperature for your Peace Lily
Peace Lillies thrive in temperatures between 15-30°C. Sudden changes in temperature or low humidity can stress the plant, but the most common problem is air-conditioning vents. If the plant is in the direct blast of an aircon machine, you may notice some browning edges or tips. This is because the airconditioning air is lacking of any moisture or humidity - a must for many rainforest-originating plants. The dry air dries out the leaves, often resulting in crispy brown edges or tips. The good news is that this won’t kill the plant, its simply trying to tell you it’s unhappy.
So now you might be asking, should I cut the brown tips off?
You can trim them off if you don’t like how they look, but it’s not really necessary and won’t impact the plant’s health.
Pests to watch for
Although uncommon with Peace Lilies compared to other plants, make sure you check for pests every now and then, particularly if you are noticing yellowing leaves or other signs of a sad plant . Fungas Gnats are the main offenders found in Peace Lillies as they like to live in moist soil.
And while rare, Peace Lilies are also not immune to other common pests like Spidermites. Spray your Mineral Oil onto any pests and wipe with a microfibre cloth.
Given. the large size of the leaves, it’s always good to proactively wipe the leaves anyway - it doubles as a leaf shine and cleans the surface, helping the plant photosynthesise.
it also makes the plant look great!
Repotting & Soil for your Peace Lily
Peace lilies thrive in well-draining soil that holds moisture without becoming soggy. They prefer a rich mix with good aeration to support healthy root growth. Our House Blend soil is perfect for this! If you’d like to mix your own, a blend of potting soil, perlite, and sphagnum moss will provide the right balance of drainage and moisture retention.
Pot Size
Choose a pot only about an inch larger than the root ball to prevent excess soil from holding too much moisture. Peace lilies don’t require frequent repotting—every one to two years is usually enough, ideally in spring or summer when they’re actively growing. If your plant becomes root-bound or starts wilting quickly after watering, it may be time for a new pot.
Growth Rate
Peace lilies are moderate growers, with new leaves emerging regularly under the right conditions. While they won’t grow as aggressively as some tropical plants, consistent care—especially proper lighting, humidity, and watering—can encourage steady, lush growth. Occasional pruning of yellow or damaged leaves helps maintain their shape and vitality.
Propagating Your Peace Lily
To propogate your peace lily, diving the plant is the easiest and most effective method. You will need to have a larger, more established plant to do so. Here’s how you can do it:
Choose the Right Time – The best time to divide a peace lily is during the growing season, typically spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Remove the Plant – Take the peace lily out of its pot - it’s root-bound, tap the sides of the pot or loosen the soil to ease it out.
Separate the Clumps – Look for natural divisions in the root system, where multiple crowns (clusters of leaves) have formed. Using your hands or a clean, sharp knife, carefully separate these sections, ensuring each has a healthy root system attached.
Repot the Divisions – Plant each division in a pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Choose a container with drainage holes and place the newly potted divisions in indirect light.
Water and Care – Water thoroughly after repotting and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight for a few weeks to help the plants adjust to their new pots.
How do I get my Peace Lily to flower?
Fertiliser is important if you want your plant to flower. Once a month at minimum is ideal - follow the instructions on your Plant Coffee and include the mixture in your watering schedule. While they can flower all year round in the right conditions, you can most likely expect them during Spring.,
Pet Safety: Are Peace Lilies Toxic?
While most indoor plants contain some level of toxicity, it is especially important to keep peace lilies out of reach of pets that may be tempted to chew on their leaves or flowers. These plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and throat if ingested. The highest concentration of these toxins is found in the flowers, making them particularly dangerous for curious cats and dogs. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to drooling, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal distress. To ensure the safety of your pets, it’s best to place peace lilies in areas they cannot access or consider pet-friendly alternatives..
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