Spathiphyllum 5cm pot

Spathiphyllum (Spathiphyllum spp.)

Spathiphyllum, commonly known as the Peace Lily, is a beautiful tropical plant often used in paludariums, ripariums, terrariums, and aquariums with the roots submerged. With its lush, glossy green leaves and elegant white flowers, it creates a striking natural display above the waterline while its extensive root system provides shelter for fish and helps absorb excess nutrients from the water.

Although frequently sold for aquariums, it is important to note that Spathiphyllum is not a true aquatic plant. It should never be fully submerged, as prolonged underwater growth will eventually cause the plant to deteriorate. Instead, it thrives with its roots in the water and its leaves growing above the surface, making it an excellent choice for open-top aquariums, paludariums, and aquascapes with emerged planting.

🌿 Why Choose Spathiphyllum?

🌿 Lush, glossy green foliage with elegant white flowers
💧 Excellent for aquariums with roots submerged and leaves above water
✨ Helps absorb excess nutrients and improve water quality
🐟 Long roots provide shelter for fish, shrimp, and fry
🌱 Perfect for paludariums, ripariums, and open-top aquariums
💪 Easy to grow and low maintenance
🏡 Creates a beautiful natural indoor display

Spathiphyllum is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where it grows in warm, humid environments along streams and forest floors. In nature, its roots remain consistently moist, while the foliage grows in the humid air above.

📏 Care Requirements

🧬 Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum spp.
📛 Common Name: Peace Lily
🏠 Suitable For: Paludariums, ripariums, and open-top aquariums
📏 Maximum Height: 30–90cm (depending on variety)
📐 Growth Rate: Moderate
💡 Lighting: Low to moderate indirect light
🌡️ Temperature: 18–30°C
⚗️ pH Range: 6.0–7.8 (for submerged roots)
💧 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
🌱 Placement: Roots submerged, foliage above the waterline
🧪 CO₂: Not required
🌿 Difficulty: Easy

Spathiphyllum thrives when its roots are constantly moist or submerged while its leaves remain in the air. Bright, indirect light encourages healthy growth and flowering, while avoiding direct sunlight helps prevent leaf scorch. Regular removal of older leaves and occasional fertilisation will keep the plant looking its best.

🐠 Ideal Tank Mates

When used correctly with only the roots submerged, Spathiphyllum is suitable alongside:

🐟 Tetras
🐟 Rasboras
🐟 Guppies and Endlers
🐟 Corydoras
🐟 Gouramis
🐟 Angelfish
🐟 Rainbowfish
🦐 Freshwater Shrimp
🐌 Peaceful freshwater snails

Its hanging roots provide a natural refuge for fry, shrimp, and shy fish while also creating an attractive, jungle-like appearance.

Important Notes

Spathiphyllum is not a fully aquatic plant. While its roots can remain permanently submerged, the leaves and crown must stay above the waterline. If the entire plant is submerged, it will gradually rot and die.

Thanks to its vigorous root system, Spathiphyllum is highly effective at removing nitrates and other dissolved nutrients from aquarium water, making it a popular choice for natural filtration systems and aquaponic-style setups.

If grown in ideal conditions, mature plants may produce their iconic white flowers throughout the year, adding an extra touch of elegance to your aquarium or paludarium display.

Please note: Peace Lilies contain calcium oxalate crystals and are considered toxic if chewed or eaten by cats, dogs, or other pets. They should be kept out of reach of household animals.

Spathiphyllum is a fantastic choice for UK aquarists looking to create a lush, natural display above their aquarium. Its elegant foliage, beautiful flowers, and ability to improve water quality make it a superb addition to paludariums, ripariums, and open-top aquariums where both beauty and function are equally important.