The Peace lily is a great houseplant for the houseplant challenged. I guess that's why it's so popular as a housewarming gift. The glossy, dark green leaves are offset by white spathes or bracts that enclosing the tiny flower clusters and look almost like variegated leaves. I've heard claims that the flowers are lightly scented, but I can't say I've noticed. Still, how many other plants flower in the shadiest of homes?
Light: Peace lilies actually prefer a bright, diffused light, but since they tolerate low light and very few flowering plants do, they have become known as a low light plant.
Water: Allow the soil to dry between waterings, but keep an eye on it. If the soil is dry for too long, the leaves will start to yellow and drop.
Fertilizer: Feed every other month with a diluted water soluble fertilizer. Repot every 2-3 years with fresh soil.
Temperature: Typical house temperatures of 65 - 85°F are ideal. They can handle it a bit cooler at night.
Additional Tips: Peace lilies are listed as one of the best air purifying houseplants. http://fengshui.about.com/od/health/tp/nasaplants.htm
Peace lilies can be sensitive to chemicals in water. Try not to get water on the leaves. Bottom watering, as with African violets, is a good choice.
Peace Lilies are becoming popular with hybridizers. Some new varieties to be on the lookout for include: profuse blooming "Flower Power" and variegated "Domino".
Sometimes it's best to rely on foliage rather than flowers for color in low light rooms. Good choices would be caladiums, shade coleus and rex begonias.
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