Learn about the history of Peace lily. Not true lilies, these plants were discovered in the Columbian jungle in the 1800s. They were brought to Europe and became very popular in Victorian England. Also find out out where they got their botanical and common names.
#healthyhouseplants #peacelily #indoorplantcare #airpurifyingplants #houseplantlove
Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you all about gardening in The Great Indoors. If you’d like to support our show, please use our Amazon affiliate link below.
Today we have another installment of my Plant Stories series, which shares the history of various houseplants. I also have a care video on the Peace Lily, which I’ll link below, along with any other related videos.
As mentioned, this video focuses on the history of the Peace Lily, botanically known as Spathiphyllum. Peace Lilies are beautiful plants that produce striking white flowers. They’re relatively easy to grow and will flower even in medium to low light. They do need sunlight, but not direct light—bright light can actually harm them. You can learn more about that in the Peace Lily care video.
Peace Lilies aren’t true lilies; they belong to the Araceae (arum) family, which also includes Anthuriums, Monsteras, and Philodendrons. The Peace Lily was first discovered by Gustav Wallis in the Colombian jungle and arrived in Europe in 1824. It’s also native to Venezuela.
The plant was named in honor of Wallis—its full botanical name is Spathiphyllum wallisii. The word “Spathiphyllum” comes from Greek, with “spath” meaning spathe and “phyllum” meaning leaf.
Once brought to Europe, the plant became wildly popular, especially in Victorian England. In the 1980s, German breeders began hybridizing it, creating dozens of unique varieties. These include popular types like ‘Domino’, which features beautiful variegated white striping, as well as both dwarf varieties and large cultivars that can grow up to six feet tall. Today, there are more than 50 known cultivars of Peace Lily.
In 1989, Peace Lilies gained major national attention when NASA included them at the top of their list of air-purifying plants. NASA’s study evaluated plants for use in spacecraft traveling to Mars and Peace Lily scored high for air cleaning and oxygen production.
The name “Peace Lily” comes from the flower’s resemblance to a white flag—an international symbol of surrender and truce. Over time, they’ve also become popular as symbols of peace, especially in funeral arrangements. Additionally, they’re used in feng shui for attracting positive energy, prosperity, balance, and tranquility.
So, now you know a little more about the fascinating history of the Peace Lily—something fun to share the next time someone admires the one growing in your home.
Thanks for stopping by today. Please leave any comments about indoor gardening topics you’d like to see. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, share, and hit the bell to be notified when new videos are released!
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) History FAQs
What is the botanical name of the Peace Lily?
The Peace Lily is botanically known as Spathiphyllum wallisii, named after the plant explorer Gustav Wallis who discovered it.
Are Peace Lilies true lilies?
No, Peace Lilies are not true lilies. They belong to the Araceae (arum) family, which includes plants like Monsteras and Philodendrons.
Where is the Peace Lily originally from?
Peace Lilies are native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia and Venezuela.
When did the Peace Lily become popular in Europe?
The Peace Lily was introduced to Europe in 1824 and became especially popular in Victorian England.
Why are Peace Lilies known for air purification?
In 1989, NASA ranked Peace Lilies among the top air-purifying plants, noting their effectiveness in improving indoor air quality.
How did the Peace Lily get its name?
The name “Peace Lily” comes from the white flower’s resemblance to a white flag, the international symbol for peace and truce.
Are there different varieties of Peace Lilies?
Yes, there are over 50 known cultivars of Peace Lilies, including dwarf varieties and taller types like the popular variegated ‘Domino’.
Patreon: 
/ healthyhouseplants
One-time donation: https://ko-fi.com/healthyhouseplants
Sign up for my monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/g1PCSH
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn commissions for purchases made through the link below.
Peace lily: https://amzn.to/3qv7C45