Peace Lilies, belonging to the genus Spathiphyllum, are not true lilies but are prized as foliage and flowering houseplants. From a botanical perspective, their popularity stems from their adaptability to low-light conditions and their distinctive inflorescence. This structure consists of a white, leaf-like bract called a spathe, which surrounds a central spike of tiny, true flowers known as the spadix. While all varieties share this basic morphology, selective cultivation has led to significant differences in size, leaf characteristics, and flowering habits among popular varieties.
The leaves of Peace Lilies are a primary factor in distinguishing between varieties. The species Spathiphyllum wallisii, the progenitor of many hybrids, typically has medium-green, lance-shaped leaves with a pronounced glossy texture. However, cultivated varieties exhibit considerable variation. The 'Mauna Loa' variety, for instance, features very broad, dark green leaves that can exceed 20 cm in width, creating a lush, tropical appearance. In contrast, the 'Domino' and 'Picasso' varieties are celebrated for their variegated foliage. 'Domino' displays elegant, speckled white variegation across its leaves, while 'Picasso' pushes this further with large, bold blocks of pure white, sometimes covering nearly half the leaf surface. This variegation is a result of a mutation affecting chlorophyll production, making these varieties slightly more demanding in terms of light requirements to sustain their white sectors.
The mature size of a Peace Lily variety is a critical consideration for interior placement. On the larger end of the spectrum, cultivars like 'Sensation' can reach impressive heights and spreads of 1.5 meters or more, with massive, deeply ribbed leaves. This makes it a commanding floor plant. Standard varieties like 'Mauna Loa' and 'Wallisii' represent a mid-size category, typically growing between 45-90 cm tall, suitable for tabletops or stands. For smaller spaces, compact or dwarf varieties have been developed. The 'Petite' or 'Mini' Peace Lily remains under 30 cm tall, making it ideal for desks or terrariums. The growth habit also varies; some varieties form tight, upright clumps, while others may have a more spreading or arching form.
Although the flower structure is consistent across the genus, the size, frequency, and presentation of the inflorescence differ. Larger varieties like 'Sensation' produce correspondingly large, majestic spathes that stand well above the foliage. The standard Spathiphyllum wallisii is known for its reliable and prolific blooming, often producing multiple flowers simultaneously. The spathe of most varieties is pure white when it first opens, but a key botanical detail is that it often gradually transitions to a pale green as it ages. Some varieties, however, are selected for their long-lasting white color. The size of the spadix relative to the spathe can also vary, with some appearing more prominent than others. It is important to note that variegated varieties like 'Domino' may flower less frequently than their solid-green counterparts, as the plant directs more energy into maintaining its complex leaf patterns.
