Plant Library
Peace Lily Care Guide
Spathiphyllum
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
Dark green leaves and white spathes make the peace lily a classic gift and sympathy plant. It flops when thirsty and recovers quickly.
Plant profile
- Light
- Low to medium indirect light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist; it wilts dramatically when dry
- Humidity
- Average to high
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Size
- 1-3 ft
- Growth
- Moderate
Light
Low to medium indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
Keep lightly moist; it wilts dramatically when dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average to high. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Use filtered or rested tap water if leaf tips brown.
Common problems
- Dramatic wilting: Thirsty; water thoroughly.
- No flowers: Not enough light.
- Brown tips: Dry air, fertilizer salts or tap water minerals.
Pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. If a pet chews it and shows symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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