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Spathiphyllum wallisii imagePhoto: Author W.carterCC BY-SA 4.0

Also known as: Spathiphyllum Wallisii, White Sails, Spathe Flower
Native to Colombia, parts of Mexico, Caribbean Islands, and northern South America

A herbaceous perennial with glossy, ovate, deeply veined leaves that arch gracefully from long petioles. Produces distinctive aroid flowers consisting of a cream-colored spadix surrounded by a white spathe (occasionally two), both transitioning to green with age. Forms dense clumps through basal offsets. Notable for its tropical evergreen foliage and elegant floral display, making it a popular ornamental houseplant. Valued for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in low light.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultyeasy
Lightlow
Waterweekly
Humidityhigh

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Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Spathiphyllum wallisii

Light & Location

Light Requirements

low

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

weekly

Humidity Needs

high humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

65-85°F (18-29°C)

Native Climate

Native to Colombia, parts of Mexico, Caribbean Islands, and northern South America

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Seasonal Care

How to adjust care through the seasons

🌱spring

No specific tips for spring.

☀️summer

  • Needs consistent moisture during hot months. Mist regularly or use a humidifier to maintain high humidity.

🍂fall

No specific tips for fall.

❄️winter

No specific tips for winter.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Spathiphyllum wallisii plants

Division during repotting via offsets produced at the base of the plant

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Colombia, parts of Mexico, Caribbean Islands, and northern South America

Growth Rate

moderate

Mature Size

1-4 feet tall and wide

Lifecycle

perennial

Pet Safety
Highly Toxic

Symptoms: CATS: EXTREME DANGER - Even small exposures (licking pollen, drinking vase water) can cause fatal kidney failure within 24-72 hours. Early signs: vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite. DOGS: Mild GI upset only.

Toxic parts: ALL parts including pollen, petals, leaves, and water from vase. Even pollen on fur can be fatal to cats.

Air Purification

This plant has air purifying properties.

🌸 Flowering

Indoor Blooming

This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.

Flower Description

Dense cream-colored spadix surrounded by a white spathe (sometimes with green veins), both aging to green. Flowers display the characteristic aroid structure with a single large bract enclosing the inflorescence.

Fun Fact

Peace lilies will dramatically droop when they need water but quickly perk back up after watering. Discovered growing wild in Colombia during the late 19th century by German plant collector Gustav Wallis, whom the species epithet commemorates.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Spathiphyllum wallisii

Brown leaf tips
Symptoms

Brown leaf tips usually indicate low humidity or too much fertilizer

Varieties

Different varieties of Spathiphyllum wallisii

Mauna Loa
Named after a Hawaiian volcano, notable for its substantial size

Larger hybrid variety

Sensation
Exceptional size makes it a striking indoor specimen

Even larger hybrid cultivar

Domino
Distinctive leaf patterning with fine variegation

Variegated intermediate-sized variety

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Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts

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