Peace lilies, known scientifically as Spathiphyllum, are cherished houseplants recognized for their graceful white or cream-colored spathes and glossy green foliage. Many plant enthusiasts are curious about the existence of a “red peace lily” due to its striking color.
Understanding the “Red Peace Lily”
Many inquire about vibrant red peace lilies, but true Spathiphyllum plants do not naturally produce bright red spathes. The term “red peace lily” typically refers to Anthurium species, which are often confused with peace lilies due to their similar appearance. Anthurium plants feature waxy, heart-shaped spathes in vivid shades of red, pink, or white, unlike the white, boat-shaped spathes of Spathiphyllum. Both belong to the Araceae family.
Some plants marketed as “red peace lilies” may have been artificially dyed. This involves introducing dye into the plant’s system, causing spathes to temporarily display an unnatural hue. This coloration is not permanent and will fade as the plant grows and produces new, undyed spathes.
Naturally Occurring Red-Tinted Varieties
While a truly red Spathiphyllum does not exist, some cultivated varieties may exhibit subtle reddish, pinkish, or purplish tints on their spathes. These soft blushes are not a vibrant, saturated red and can become more apparent as spathes mature or under specific environmental conditions.
These subtle tints are less dramatic than the vivid red found in Anthurium species. Their nuanced colors are often a result of selective breeding to expand the peace lily’s aesthetic appeal.
Caring for Red-Tinted Peace Lilies
Peace lilies, including those with subtle reddish tints, generally share similar care requirements to maintain their health and encourage blooming. Providing appropriate conditions helps ensure the plant thrives and any unique coloration is maintained.
Light Requirements
Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light. Placing them near a south or east-facing window is ideal, but direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch leaves and fade subtle coloration. While they tolerate lower light, consistent blooming requires sufficient indirect light.
Watering Practices
These plants thrive in consistently moist soil but are sensitive to overwatering, which causes root rot. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Allow excess water to drain to prevent soggy conditions. Using filtered or distilled water, or letting tap water sit overnight, can be beneficial due to their sensitivity to tap water chemicals.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, aerated potting mix rich in organic matter is suitable for peace lilies. A common mixture includes peat moss, perlite, and standard potting soil. Repotting every one to two years, ideally in the spring, provides adequate space for root growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Peace lilies thrive in warm indoor temperatures. They are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. High humidity levels are also beneficial. Misting leaves regularly, placing the pot on a pebble tray, or using a room humidifier can help increase ambient humidity.
Fertilization
During the growing season (spring and summer), peace lilies benefit from fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength every four to six weeks. Excessive fertilization can cause nutrient burn. Reduce or stop fertilizing during fall and winter when growth slows.
Common Issues and Maintaining Color
Peace lilies can encounter several common problems, some of which may affect the appearance of their spathes.
If artificially dyed, the “red” color will fade as new, undyed spathes emerge. For naturally tinted varieties, the intensity of their subtle reddish hue can diminish due to insufficient light or as spathes age.
Common issues include yellowing leaves (from over/underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or too much direct light) and brown leaf tips (indicating low humidity, underwatering, or tap water sensitivity). Wilting leaves signal underwatering or root rot. Spathes naturally brown as they age.