The Giant Peace Lily: A Gentle Giant of a Houseplant
The Giant Peace Lily, or Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’, is a popular houseplant for a reason. It’s big, it’s beautiful, and it’s great at purifying the air. These plants can grow to impressive sizes, adding a touch of the tropics to your living room.
And best of all, it’s easy to care for, even if you’re a beginner. The biggest peace lily variety will dramatically droop when it’s thirsty, which makes it very easy to know when it needs water.
This article is your complete guide to caring for a Giant Peace Lily and helping it thrive in your home.
Light requirements for the biggest blooms
If you want your giant peace lily to thrive, you’ll want to give it medium-to-bright, indirect light. That means keeping it away from windows where the sun shines directly on its leaves. Direct sunlight will scorch them.
Peace lilies can tolerate low light conditions, but you probably won’t see a lot of new growth or flowers if you keep yours in a dim spot.
Personally, I’ve found that medium light promotes better foliage growth than flowering. If you want a big, lush plant, keep it in medium light. If you’re after those gorgeous white blooms, give it bright, indirect light.
Temperature and humidity
Peace lilies like temperatures between 64 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t let the temperature drop below 59 degrees.
These plants also like high humidity, ideally 60 percent or more. If you live in a dry climate, here are some ways to keep your peace lily happy:
- Group plants together to create a more humid microclimate.
- Use a humidifier.
- Place the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant.
How to water a giant peace lily
When the top inch of the soil feels dry, it’s time to give your peace lily a good drink. Water it thoroughly until you see water draining from the bottom.
Peace lilies are dramatic plants, and they’ll let you know when they’re thirsty. Their leaves will droop quite a bit when they need water, so it’s easy to tell when it’s time to water.
Make sure your pot has drainage holes. Peace lilies can develop root rot if they sit in soggy soil, so don’t overwater them.
Soil and repotting for a thriving plant
Like every other plant, the right soil conditions and regular repotting are essential for your peace lily to thrive.
Choosing the right soil
Peace lilies like soil that drains well but still retains moisture. A mix like the Wildvine Houseplant Blend, a combo of coco coir, perlite, compost, and worm castings, may work well.
Whatever soil you choose, make sure it has good aeration and drainage to keep your plant happy.
Repotting your giant peace lily
You should repot your peace lily every year or so, especially if the soil starts to dry out quickly and can’t hold water for a week.
When repotting, choose a pot that’s a bit bigger than the one your plant is in now. Gently take the plant out of its old pot, and loosen the roots a bit. Put the plant in the new pot, and fill it up with fresh soil.
Are Peace Lilies Safe for Pets?
If you’re a pet owner, you’re probably wondering if a giant peace lily is safe to have around your furry friends.
The good news is that peace lilies aren’t deadly to cats or dogs. However, they do contain substances that can irritate a pet’s mouth and throat.
If your pet decides to sample your peace lily, watch for symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It’s best to keep peace lilies out of reach of curious pets.
What’s wrong with my peace lily?
Peace lilies are fairly easy to care for, but you still may run into problems. Here are some common issues:
- Yellowing leaves: This is often a sign of either overwatering, underwatering, or a lack of nutrients.
- Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or fluoride in your tap water could be to blame.
- No flowers: Peace lilies need enough light and nutrients to bloom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a peace lily live for 20 years?
Absolutely! With the right care and conditions, a peace lily can thrive for 20 years or even longer. Consistent watering, proper lighting, and occasional repotting are key to ensuring your peace lily enjoys a long and healthy life. They’re pretty resilient plants, so with a little TLC, they can become long-term companions.
What is the name of the giant peace lily?
While there isn’t one specific variety labeled “giant peace lily,” the most common large-growing peace lily is Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’. This cultivar is known for its impressive size, with leaves that can reach up to 3 feet long. If you’re looking for a statement plant, the ‘Sensation’ is definitely a great choice!
What to do with a huge peace lily?
So, your peace lily has outgrown its pot? Repotting is the first step! Choose a larger container and fresh potting mix. You can also divide the plant during repotting to create multiple smaller plants. Or, if you like the size, simply repot it into a bigger container. Support with a stake if needed, and enjoy the impressive display!
How large can a peace lily grow?
The size of a peace lily depends on the variety. Smaller varieties might stay under a foot tall, while larger ones like ‘Sensation’ can reach 4 feet tall and wide. The right environment plays a big role, too. Ample indirect light, consistent moisture, and proper fertilization can help your peace lily reach its full potential.
Closing Thoughts
Giant Peace Lilies are beautiful, dramatic, and easy to care for. With the right amount of light, water, and humidity, yours can thrive for years.
Now that you know all the secrets to keeping your Giant Peace Lily happy and healthy, you’re ready to enjoy its beauty for years to come!