Spathiphyllum

Common Names:

Peace Lily, Spathe Flower, White Sails

Phonetic Spelling:

spath-ih-FIL-um

Description:

The Spathiphyllum is a perennial, evergreen herb that typically grows between 0.5 to 1.2 meters (1.5 to 4 feet) tall, depending on the species and variety. It has glossy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves that emerge from the soil in a rosette pattern. The leaves are large, elliptical, and glossy, with a prominent midrib. They can grow up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) long and 10 centimeters (4 inches) wide. The plant produces distinctive white flowers consisting of a spathe (a large, white, petal-like bract) surrounding a spadix (a cylindrical cluster of tiny flowers). The spathe is usually white or greenish-white and can last for several weeks. The flowers bloom intermittently throughout the year, especially in spring and summer.

Distribution/Location:

Tropical regions of the Americas and Southeast Asia.

Environmental Concerns:

Spathiphyllum species are not considered endangered or threatened. They are widely cultivated and are common in domestic and commercial horticulture.

Additional Notes:

In its native habitat, Spathiphyllum contributes to the ecosystem by providing ground cover and habitat for various small animals and insects. It also plays a role in air purification when grown indoors, helping to remove common household toxins.