Peace Lily ( Spathiphyllum Clevelandii )

Peace lilies are sturdy plants with glossy, dark green oval leaves that narrow to a point. The leaves rise directly from the soil. These plants also periodically produce lightly fragrant white flowers that resemble calla lilies. The long-lasting flowers start out pale green and slowly turn creamy white as they open.

CHARACTERISTICS:

Peace lilies are attractive indoor foliage plants that also produce showy white flowers. They are one of the few foliage plants that will flower in low light.

Most peace lilies grow between 1 to 4 feet tall and wide. The cultivar ‘Sensation’ can reach a height of 6 feet with an equal width.

Peace lilies come in many varieties, from small delicate leafed plants to ones with giant elongated leaves. They can all produce a white bloom. It is not a good idea to let the foliage droop severely between watering on a consistent basis. Once these plants droop and then are watered, they stand back up, but because of the strain on the plant a few of the lower leaves will turn yellow and must be removed. This is due to root system damage, and as a result you will have to keep the soil moister. Try watering a peace lily thoroughly and then let the soil at the top dry out to the touch (about two inches down).

PROBLEMS

Peace lilies have few pest problems. Mealybugs are probably the most common insect indoors. Mites and scales can also be problems. Root and stem diseases are the most common problem and are usually associated with over- watering.

Peace lily is very sensitive to chilling temperatures. Injury varies with the temperature and length of exposure. Try to avoid temperatures below 60 ° F.

Magnesium deficiency can cause plants to become stunted. Leaf tissue between the veins may yellow while veins remain green. The edges of the leaves can turn brown by overfertilization or by excessive drying.

Lack of flowering usually occurs on plants that are less than a year old or that receive insufficient light.

A compact plant with leaves about two feet (60cm) tall and inflorescences about a foot (30cm) taller. The spathe and spadix are about six inches (15cm) long and pure white. Suitable for the home or a greenhouse.