How to Care for a Peace Lily—a Timeless, Low Maintenance Houseplant

Peace lilies are a popular and easily recognizable houseplant. However, despite the name, they aren't true lilies. They actually belong to the Araceae family—which also includes plants like caladiums, elephant ears, and anthuriums—and are native to tropical regions of central America. Regardless, peace lilies produce striking white blooms among their glossy green foliage and they make a great addition to interior spaces. Below, find out how to care for peace lilies and everything you need to know to keep them happy in your home.

Peace Lily Care Tips

Peace lilies are considered a low maintenance houseplant—with an ability to flower even in low light—which is part of what makes them a great plant to give as a gift. However, it's still good to keep in mind the ideal conditions for your peace lily so you can keep it happy, healthy, and looking its best.

Light

Your peace lily will do best in bright, indirect light. They can even tolerate and thrive in lower light conditions says Chad Massura, co-founder of Rosy Soil. (Peace lilies have been known to do well in offices with fluorescent lights and minimal windows.) However, while peace lilies can certainly flower in lower light conditions, they may not produce as many blooms, Massura explains,

Basically, your peace lily can live almost anywhere in your home, just don't place it in a hot, south-facing windowsill, as the direct sun will lead to its downfall.

Soil and Water

Peace lilies prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, Massura says. Be forewarned: Peace lilies have a bit of a reputation for being dramatic. If they're under-watered, their leaves can droop quite significantly and it can look like they're playing dead. But the good news is that they bounce back rather quickly after watering and can often look as good as new in an hour or two.

Temperature and Humidity

Similar to the light conditions, peace lilies can tolerate most average indoor temperature and humidity levels. However, they'll do best at temperatures between 65-80 F and in high humidity, Massura says. To keep peace lilies extra happy, and to supplement the humidity levels in your homes, give them a good misting every few days. You can also keep the plant in a higher humidity room, like the bathroom or kitchen.

Fertilizer

Peace lilies don't need much in terms of fertilizer, but they can benefit from a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer), Massura says. "Apply every four to six weeks, following the package instructions," he advises.

Pruning

To keep your peace lily in tip-top shape, you can prune and deadhead it every six months or so. This will help you to get rid of any spent leaf bracts and make room for new growth. When pruning, do so at the base of the plant and at an angle, cutting back any leaves that look faded or damaged.