Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are popular houseplants, known for their green foliage and white “flowers.” They are also known for their ability to purify indoor air. While their classic appearance is widely appreciated, some plant enthusiasts might encounter a peace lily bloom that appears to have a reddish hue. This often leads to questions about their nature.
Understanding Peace Lily Blooms
A peace lily “flower” is actually a modified leaf structure called a spathe. This white or creamy white spathe encases a central spike, known as a spadix, which holds the plant’s true flowers. The spathe’s primary role is to protect the spadix and attract pollinators. This arrangement is characteristic of plants belonging to the Araceae family.
The Reality of Red Peace Lilies
Despite the occasional appearance of a reddish tint, true red-flowered peace lilies (Spathiphyllum species) are rare in cultivation. While there are numerous peace lily cultivars available, commercially grown varieties with red spathes are not found. Plants marketed or mistaken as “red peace lilies” are a different species entirely. The natural color range for a peace lily spathe is white, often transitioning to a pale green as it ages.
Common Misidentifications: Peace Lily vs. Anthurium
The plant most frequently confused with a “red peace lily” is the Anthurium. Anthuriums have vibrant, often heart-shaped, glossy spathes that come in shades of red, pink, and orange. Both peace lilies and anthuriums belong to the Araceae family, sharing some structural similarities in their blooms, which contributes to the confusion.
However, differences exist between the two plants. Peace lily leaves are dark green, elongated, and narrower, growing directly from the base of the plant. Anthurium leaves, while also green, are more heart-shaped or oval and have a more leathery texture. Their spathes are also noticeably different; anthurium spathes are thicker and more waxy compared to the softer, more delicate spathes of a peace lily.
Why a Peace Lily Bloom Might Appear Red
If a true peace lily’s spathe shows reddish discoloration, several factors can cause this. As spathes mature, they naturally change color, turning from white to a pale green, and may develop brownish or reddish hues before fading. Environmental stressors can also contribute to unusual coloration.
Over-fertilization or excessive direct sunlight can cause a reddish tint or browning on the spathe. Certain environmental imbalances or even some fungal or bacterial issues can also lead to overall discoloration or browning of plant tissues, including the spathe. Assess the plant’s overall health and growing conditions if unusual colors appear.
General Peace Lily Care
Providing consistent care helps ensure a peace lily’s health. Peace lilies thrive in indirect, low to medium light conditions, as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves and spathes. The soil should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves, while underwatering causes drooping, though the plant revives quickly after a thorough drink.
These plants also appreciate high humidity. They prefer average room temperatures, between 68 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. During the growing season (spring and summer), a peace lily benefits from light feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Common issues like brown leaf tips can indicate low humidity or salt buildup from tap water or fertilizers.