Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum

All peace lilies are evergreen tender perennials. Most have upright clusters of leaves that grow directly from short rhizomes (underground rooting stems) to form slow-spreading clumps. The shiny, simple bright green leaves have long, sheathed petioles (leaf stems) and prominent leaf veins. They vary in shape from narrowly lanceolate to elliptical or oval with pointy tips.

Like all members of the aroid family, they have unusual flowers consisting of a finger-like floral column (spadix) surrounded by a white or pale green petal-like leaf (spathe). The spathe is often large, leathery and held above the foliage. The blooms are usually fragrant, long lasting and suitable for cutting. They occur mostly from winter to summer, but some hybrids have been bred to bloom longer.

Tropicals such as these are very frost-tender and require protection from chilly weather. Bright indirect light, high humidity and evenly moist but well-drained soil or potting mix are required for good growth. Water and fertilize regularly, but refrain from over-watering or over-feeding as both can damage root and foliage health. Outdoor plants must be shaded from intense midday sun, which can scorch leaves. Indoors, these are some of the best plants for low-light conditions. Spathiphyllums are great landscape plants for the tropics. In temperate areas grow them as houseplants or summer patio specimens.