Spathiphyllum sp. lanceolata

Spathiphyllum sp. lanceolata is a tropical aroid grown for its narrow, lance-shaped leaves and long-lasting white spathes. It forms a compact clumping habit from short rhizomes, producing upright, glossy green foliage with a distinctly tapered tip and pronounced midrib. New leaves emerge tightly furled on slender petioles before unfurling to their full length.

Spathiphyllum lanceolatum is a species of peace lily that remains more slender and refined in leaf shape than many hybrid Spathiphyllum commonly sold in garden centres. Under good indoor conditions it produces creamy-white spathes surrounding a pale spadix, typically held just above the foliage. Its manageable size and tolerance of moderate indoor light levels make it perfect for growing indoors in the UK.

Native to:
Tropical regions of Central and northern South America, including countries such as Colombia, Venezuela and parts of the Amazon basin. It grows on the forest floor in shaded, humid rainforest understories, rooting in consistently moist, organic-rich soils. The species forms basal clumps rather than climbing, with leaves typically 3060 cm long, narrow-elliptic to lanceolate, and deep green.

Water:
Keep the compost consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 1/3 of the potting mix begins to dry, allowing excess water to drain away. Spathiphyllum lanceolatum will wilt noticeably if it becomes too dry, but should recover quickly after watering. Avoid leaving the pot standing in water, as prolonged saturation can lead to root rot.

Light:
Bright filtered light is ideal. It will tolerate moderate indirect light, though flowering may be reduced in lower light conditions. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves and cause yellowing or brown patches. A position near an east- or north-facing window, or slightly back from a south- or west-facing window behind sheer curtains, works well.

Humidity:
Prefers 6080% humidity for best growth. It will tolerate average indoor humidity in UK homes, but leaf tips may brown if the air is very dry. Increasing humidity with a humidifier or grouping plants together is beneficial. Its compact size and appreciation for higher humidity mean it is well suited to terrarium-style cabinets or enclosed growing spaces.

Temperature:
Maintain temperatures between 1827C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15C, as growth will slow and foliage may suffer damage. Keep away from cold draughts and sudden temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter.