Spathiphyllum wallisii
| Spathiphyllum wallisii | |
 | |
| Classification | |
| Group: | Angiosperms |
|---|---|
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Spathiphyllum |
| Species: | S. wallisii |
| Classified: | Regel, 1877 |
| Growing | |
| Propagation: | From From division, seeds |
| Adult size: | 0.5m-1m |
| Lighting: | Medium |
| Watering: | Keep the soil moist |
| Fertilization: | Monthly during active growth |
| Soil: | Well drained |
| Humidity: | High humidity preferred, low humidity tolerated |
| Other information | |
| Toxicity: | Toxic sap |
| Rarity: | Common |
| See more Spathiphyllum | |
Common names:
Peace lilly
Spathiphyllum wallisii is a epiphytic plant of the Araceae family. Native to Colombia to Venezuela, it makes an excellent houseplant and will tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
Contents
Name
Spathiphyllum means “spathe-leaf” in Latin. The flowers consist of the spathe (the white, sheath-like leaf) and the spadix (the spike of small flowers located within the spathe).
Wallisii is named after Gustav Wallis, the German plant collector.
Characteristics
Foliage
S. wallisii has dark green, glossy leaves. The tips of leaves can brown if salt levels in the soil build up. To avoid this, use distilled or rain water to water this plant where possible.
Flowers
The S. wallisii inflorescence consists of an erect spadix enclosed in a white, boat-shaped spathe. The corn-like spadix is covered in small flowers.
Care
S. wallisii wants bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct light but avoid hot midday sun or the leaves will scorch.
Use a well draining soil mix (see aroid soil) and water thoroughly, allowing excess to drain. A waterlogged soil will lead to yellow leaves.
Common issues
Yellowing/dropping leaves
Yellowing leaves are a sign of too much water. Ensure the pot has good drainage and allow the surface of the soil to dry between watering. Older leaves will naturally yellow and die eventually.
If the soil is staying moist for more than two weeks between watering, or the soil feels soggy or very wet after a week then consider repotting the plant into a smaller container: the roots staying wet for too long will lead to root rot and a quick decline in the plant's health. When repotting use a well drained mix (see aroid soil)
Sun damage
S. wallisii cannot take direct sun, except in the early mornings or late evenings. Make sure it is situated away from parts of the home that get direct, hot midday sun.
Pests
S. wallisii is relatively resistant to pests, however it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, scale, thrips and whitefly.