Beyond the Basics: Choosing the Perfect Peace Lily Variety for Your Home
The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) has long been a favorite houseplant, celebrated for its forgiving nature, air-purifying qualities, and stunning white flower-like bracts. While many people think of the Peace Lily as a single, standard plant, over 40 varieties exist, offering a remarkable range of sizes and visual textures perfect for any corner of your home.
If you’re ready to bring a Spathiphyllum into your space, knowing the differences between the major types can help you select the ideal variety for your decor and available light.
- The Architectural Giants
If you need a dramatic floor piece, look for the larger cultivars. These varieties can truly transform a room corner into a lush, tropical statement.
The reigning champion in size is the Spathiphyllum 'Sensation.' This is the largest commercially grown variety, boasting deeply ribbed, dark green leaves that can reach three to six feet tall. It is the perfect choice for placing directly on the floor in spacious living areas or entryways.
- The Variegated Classics
For those who want a softer look that still provides visual interest, variegated Spathiphyllums are a standout choice.
The Spathiphyllum 'Domino' is a medium-sized variety known for its striking splash of white variegation across the leaves. Unlike the solid green of most peace lilies, the 'Domino' features unique patterns, making it a highly decorative plant, ideal for tabletops or pedestals where its foliage can be admired up close.
- The Traditional Standards
The most common and reliable choices fall into the medium range—perfect for desks or mid-level shelves.
Spathiphyllum 'Mauna Loa' is the quintessential Peace Lily. Known for its strong stems and abundance of large white blooms, it is extremely hardy and a fantastic place for beginners to start. If you want the classic, easy-care Peace Lily experience, this is your plant.
- Miniatures for the Desk
Don't have much room? Miniature varieties are excellent for bathrooms, desks, or small shelves.
Spathiphyllum 'Wallisii,' often sold as a "Petite Peace Lily," rarely grows taller than 12 inches. It maintains the same easy-care requirements but in a compact cluster. These small varieties typically bloom more frequently than their larger cousins, making them wonderful low-light companions for tight spaces.