The moonflower, a symbol of peace and serenity
Spathiphyllum wallisii
- Exposure
- Half-shade
- Hardiness (USDA)
- 11b (7.2°C ≤ T° < 10°C)
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Family
- Araceae
- Genus
- Spathiphyllum
- Species
- Moonflower Spathiphyllum wallisii
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 andraeanum. 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 care 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 They like to keep the potting mix moist, but not soggy. Water when the soil is dry on the surface (about two to three centimeters deep).
Water the substrate with non-hard water—such as rainwater—at room temperature.
Let the water drain out through the drainage holes before returning the plant to its place. Empty any standing water from the saucer or planter. It may cause the roots to rot.
Misting
Spraying non-calcareous water on the underside and tops of foliage improves humidity, repels dust and repels pests.
Repotting
Every year in the 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.
Taking cuttings
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.
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
Information
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Exposure
- Half-shade
- Substrate
- Humus soil
- Planting methods
- In potsIn tubs
- Tags
- BeginnerFloweryThirstyToxic
- Origin
- South America
- Hardiness (USDA)
- 11b (7.2°C ≤ T° < 10°C)
- Leaf color
- Light green
- Flower colors
- WhiteCream
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