Potted moonflower

Credit: Alan Myers

Peace lily with flower

Credit: Helena Jacoba

White spathe and moonflower spadix

Credit: Julian Fong

Moonflower seedling

Credit: Max Wei

The moonflower, a symbol of peace and serenity

Moonflower (Spathiphyllum wallisii) flourishes in the shade of tall trees in the tropical forests of Colombia. Because of its flowers, reminiscent of the white flag, it is considered a messenger of peace. If you have an apology to make, the peace lily will help you make amends.

How to recognize the moonflower (Spathiphyllum wallisii)?

The moonflower is a perennial plant that grows from fifty centimetres to one metre in all directions. Shovel-headed, it develops numerous shoots at its base and, after a few years, adopts a bushy habit.

Foliage grows in rosettes. The lanceolate blades are 12 to 65 centimetres long and 3 to 25 centimetres wide. Leaves have a pronounced midrib. They are shiny dark green. There are also white variegated cultivars, such as spathiphyllum 'Diamond variegata.

The flower of Spathiphyllum wallisii resembles that of anthurium andreanum. It consists ofa concave spathe ten to thirty centimetres long. White or cream at the start of flowering, it then takes on a green hue. This bract contains the green or white spadix. In the wild, flowering occurs from May to October. Indoors, with proper care, it can last all year round.

In addition to symbolizing peace and serenity, the moonflower is reputed to be a depolluting plant. While these properties are not fully proven, Spathiphyllum is certainly toxic. Like other species in the Araceae family, its sap contains calcium oxalate crystals. They cause digestive problems when ingested. If you live with pets or young children, keep the plant out of their reach.

Our maintenance tips

Moonflowers are not very difficult to care for. Less temperamental than their Anthurium look-alike, they need only be placed in part-shade and watered generously and regularly.

Watering

Moonflowers like to keep soil moist, but not soggy. Water when the soil surface is dry (two to three centimetres).

Water the substrate with non-calcareous water, such as rainwater, at room temperature.

Allow the water to drain through the drainage holes before replacing the plant. Empty out any water stagnating in the saucer or planter. It may rot the roots.

Spray

Spraying non-calcareous water on the underside and tops of foliage improves humidity, repels dust and repels pests.

Repotting

Every spring, repot your Spathiphyllum wallisii to give it more space.

Choose a container large enough to allow roots to develop.

To promote drainage, make sure the bottom of the pot is perforated. Place a layer of clay balls or gravel, followed by potting soil for green plants. You can even mix in some perlite.

Place your Moonflower in this new pot and water.

Fertilization

To promote the growth of your Spathiphyllum wallisii, apply fertilizer in spring and summer.

Moonflowers are greedy plants. Feed them with a flowering plant fertilizer to support their growth.

Cleaning

When dust accumulates on the leaves, the plant slows down its photosynthesis process and its growth. To keep your Spathiphyllum wallisii healthy, clean its foliage with a damp, clean cloth.

Moonflowers are toxic plants. Wash your hands after touching your plant, or wear gloves when handling it.

Prune

Remove spent flowers before they set seed. Their production exhausts the plant.

Cutting

Cutting is carried out during the strong growth phase, generally in spring and early summer.

Rhizome division requires digging up the plant. Carefully remove your Spathiphyllum wallisii from the ground and examine its root system.

Choose an offshoot with roots distinct from the main plant. It will be easier to remove. Separate it from the rest of the plant with your hands.

To increase your chances of success, choose rhizomes with at least one leaf.

Prepare a pierced pot adapted to the size of your cutting. Pour in a drainage layer (clay balls, gravel), followed by green plant substrate.

Plant your cutting in the center. Fill the pot with potting soil, taking care not to bury the crown. Press down to hold the plant in place. You can then water the plant for the first time to eliminate air bubbles and encourage rooting.

Diseases / Threats

Aphids

Red spiders

Information

Family	Araceae - Araceae
Type	Spathiphyllum - Spathiphyllum
Species	Moonflower - Spathiphyllum wallisii
Lifecycle	Perennial
Foliage	Evergreen
Exposure	Half-shade
Substrat	Humus soil
Planting methods	In pots In tubs
Categories	Interior Rhizome Flowery
Tags	Beginner Flowery Soiffarde Toxic
Origin	South America
Hardiness (USDA)	11b
Leaf color
Flower colors