Also known as peace lily or cradle of Moseshe spatophilium It is often associated with purity, peace, calm and healing.

It is very popular as houseplant, because, in addition to needing little light and very basic care, it is one of the plants that purifies the air the most and can help you maintain a healthy environment in your home or office.

Spatifilium or peace lily: origin and characteristics

The spatifilium or espatifil (Spathiphyllum) It is a plant native to the tropical areas of America and Southeast Asia that can be easily found in florists in our country.

Its name comes from the Greek words «spath» and «phyllon«which mean «spathe» and «leaf», that is, it could be translated as “spathe-shaped leaf”. The spathe is a large bract that surrounds certain inflorescences. In the case of spatifilium it is white and often blends in with the flower.

The spatifilium is a perennial herbaceous plant with large, shiny, oval dark green leaves and white, yellow or greenish flowers produced in a spadix (a spike-shaped inflorescence), surrounded by the large white spathe.

There are about 47 different speciesbut perhaps the easiest to maintain is the Sweet Laurettawhich grows in both bright and shady places.

Properties of spatifilium, a great air purifier

The spatifilium or peace lily is one of the most useful plants for clean the air in the home or office. It is known for its ability to remove gaseous pollutants such as carbon dioxide from the indoor environment. benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene (present, for example, in paints, glues, varnishes or gasoline).

This is indicated by the NASA Clean Air Studyan investigation that was carried out in 1989 to determine which plants have a greater capacity to clean the environment in closed places such as space stations. These results have been endorsed by subsequent studies, such as this 2022 research carried out by the University of Birmingham.

Symbolism of the spatifilium: the peace lily

The popular name of spatifilium, peace lilyis a clear indication of what it represents. This elegant plant is known for symbolize peace, tranquility, purity and healing. Its bract has been associated with the white flaginternationally recognized as a symbol of peace.

In general, the White flowers are often considered a symbol of purity of the soul. and are used in religious or spiritual ceremonies. The peace lily also symbolizes spiritual growth and the journey toward enlightenment, perhaps due to its ability to grow in low-light environments.

Its qualities to improve indoor air and eliminate pollutants make the peace lily also a symbol of purification and the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

What care does the spatifilium need?

Spatifilium is usually grown as a houseplant because It doesn’t need much sunlight or much water.. Despite requiring little care, if you want it to grow healthy, you should take some factors into account:

• You should water it approximately once a week. (when you notice the soil is dry) and leave the soil moist (but not soaked). During flowering it needs more water, but excessive watering can rot the roots.
• Although it needs little sunlight and grows well in the shade, For it to flower, it should receive some indirect light. through a window.

• It tends to grow well at normal indoor temperatures. (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius), but it must be kept away from cold or hot air currents and protected from sudden changes in temperature.
• Regarding the soil, it is advisable to use a high-quality potting mix with good drainage.
• It is advisable to remove yellowish or brown leaves to promote the growth and health of the plant.

You must keep in mind that the peace lily can be toxic to dogs or cats if they ingest it so you should keep it out of their reach.