variegated peace lily
Discover watering, soil, fertilizing, pests, styling, and troubleshooting tips for variegated peace lily
from our experience growing and caring for it in our Brooklyn home!
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variegated peace lily Care guide
lineage and Symbolism
The Variegated Peace Lily (aka Spathiphyllum Domino) from the Araceae family has striking leaves – each deep green with creamy white marbling that looks like a natural brushstroke! This plant adds a soft elegance without overwhelming – perfect for shelves, side tables, or shaded corners where it can show off its variegation in indirect light. This one can grow up to 24 inches tall! Peace lilies have a little secret: they actually signal when they’re thirsty. You’ll notice a bit of wilting, which is their gentle nudge for a drink. This makes them especially easy to care for since we get a direct cue to water 🙂
The Variegated Peace Lily symbolizes peace, healing, and tranquility, making it especially fitting for Libras, who value harmony and balance.
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“I have a lot of plants–A LOT–and I think it’s my favorite of all my plants. It’s just so easy. (I have started running a humidifier some now that the heat is on to prevent brown leaf tips.)”
Light and placement
What is the light requirement for variegated peace lily?
The Variegated Peace Lily thrives best in bright, indirect light – we recommend placing it near an east-facing window. This direction provides just the right balance, allowing the plant to soak in morning light without harsh afternoon rays. Aim for around 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily to keep its stunning variegation vibrant. Avoid direct sun, as it can scorch those lovely leaves. This one won’t thrive in low light, though medium light can work. It’s one way it is different from its green counterpart.
How to know if variegated peace lily is not getting right amount of light?
Too little light? We’ll see fewer variegated patches. Leaves will turn darker green or even droop. If it’s catching too much light, the leaves can scorch, developing brown tips or patches.
Where to place variegated peace lily and where to avoid?
We’ve found that the best spot for our Variegated Peace Lily is near an east-facing window where it can soak up gentle morning light. This spot gives it just the right amount of indirect light which helps its variegation without risking leaf burn. Avoid placing it in direct sun from a south or west-facing window.
As seasons shift, try moving it slightly closer to the window in winter to capture more of that softer, shorter sunlight. In summer, pulling it a bit back or filtering light with sheer curtains will protect it from the stronger midday sun. Bathrooms or kitchens with east-facing windows can also be great spots: offering both humidity and ideal light.
Soil
What soil composition to use for variegated peace lily?
For the Variegated Peace Lily, we recommend a well-draining mix of standard potting soil with extra perlite or coarse sand for added aeration: about 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite or sand works well. This blend holds enough moisture for regular watering while avoiding sogginess. Aim for a slightly acidic pH around 5.5 to 6.5.
Best soil to use for variegated peace lily?
This is a great and most popular soil mix for your variegated peace lily. If you’re using other potting mixes, just make sure to add more perlite!
Temperature and Humidity
What is the best temperature condition for variegated peace lily?
Our Variegated Peace Lily thrives best in temperatures between 65-80°F. If you’re in a warmer region, keep it away from direct heat sources or midday sun to prevent leaf drooping or browning.
In colder areas or winter months, ensure it’s not near drafty windows or heaters. It will suffer if temperatures drop below 55°F, often showing signs with yellowing leaves.
What is the best humidity condition for variegated peace lily?
The Variegated Peace Lily thrives in moderate to high humidity: ideally around 50-60%. If you’re in a drier climate – especially during winter when indoor air gets dry – try misting the plant occasionally or using a humidity tray to prevent leaf browning or curling.
For warmer or naturally humid areas, ensure good air circulation to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to fungal spots or yellowing leaves. We keep the plant outside in the shade sometimes during warmer seasons here in Brooklyn!
Our favorite humidifiers
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fertilizer
What is the best fertilizer composition to use for Variegated Peace Lily?
Our Variegated Peace Lily – native to tropical rainforests – thrives on a balanced, gentle feed: we suggest using a 10-10-10 balanced fertilizer—10% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 10% potassium—diluted to half strength to avoid over-fertilizing.
For a simple DIY recipe: Combine 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt, 1 teaspoon of fish emulsion, and a gallon of water. Apply monthly during spring and summer!
How and when to fertilize Variegated Peace Lily?
We recommend fertilizing the Variegated Peace Lily every 6-8 weeks during spring and summer when it’s actively growing. Apply it directly to the soil while avoiding the leaves to prevent potential burn. Pour evenly around the base and allow the roots to absorb the nutrients gradually. Water the plant before hand so the soil is moist and it prevents any burn.
What are the signs Variegated Peace Lily needs food?
it’ll start showing slow growth, fewer or smaller blooms, and pale or yellowing leaves. These signs usually appear in spring or summer when the plant’s natural growth pace picks up. “Yellowing leaves or lack of blooms can indicate that your peace lily needs nutrients.” from Spruce.
Best fertilizer to use for Variegated Peace Lily?
Pots and planters
What are the best pots to use for Variegated Peace Lily?
For our Variegated Peace Lily, we recommend a medium-sized pot: around 8-10 inches in diameter. A ceramic or terracotta pot works well – these materials are breathable which regulate moisture. Choose a pot with good drainage holes since peace lilies are sensitive to waterlogging. A slightly rounded or bowl shape supports the plant’s broad leaves and keeps it balanced!
Our favorite Terracotta and ceramic pots
Watering
How and When to water Variegated Peace Lily?
The Variegated Peace Lily thrives in consistently moist but never waterlogged soil. We water it every 1-2 weeks, adjusting seasonally—more in warm months, less ( once in 2-3 weeks) in winter. Ideally, let the top inch of soil dry out before watering, especially if using perlite or sand.
To water, pour slowly at the base until you see drainage, ensuring even moisture throughout the root zone without soaking it. Peace lilies are sensitive to chlorinated water, so filtered or rainwater works best. They have the tendency to cause brown tips.
what are the Signs of over or under watering Variegated Peace Lily?
Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and a droopy appearance, even though the soil feels moist—this is a unique response as peace lilies are prone to root rot if waterlogged. Underwatering shows up as crispy, brown leaf edges and tips, with the whole plant drooping when the soil is too dry.
Our favorite watering cans
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pruning
When to prune Variegated Peace Lily and why?
Pruning the Variegated Peace Lily helps keep it healthy, encourages fuller growth – The best time to prune is in spring or early summer when it’s actively growing. Signs it’s ready for pruning include: brown leaf tips, yellowing or wilted leaves, or overgrown, leggy stems.
how to prune Variegated Peace Lily (step by step)?
Inspect and Identify: Start by examining the plant for any discolored, droopy, or leggy leaves. These are the leaves we’ll focus on.
Prepare Tools: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent spreading bacteria. Sanitizing tools between cuts is essential for this sensitive plant.
Remove Damaged Leaves: Grip the leaf stem near the base and make a clean cut at its point of origin. Avoid pulling on the leaves, as this can damage nearby healthy tissue.
Trim Leggy Stems: For any overly long or thin stems, cut close to the main stem to maintain the plant’s shape.
how to care after pruning Variegated Peace Lily?
After pruning, keep the plant in indirect light and water moderately, ensuring soil isn’t too wet. “Pruned peace lilies appreciate indirect light and balanced water after trimming.” – The Gardeners Path
propagating
When to Propagate Variegated Peace Lily?
The Variegated Peace Lily is best propagated through division – the simplest and most reliable method for this plant. Unlike stem cuttings, division ensures the new plants have established roots, which gives them a solid start. The ideal time for propagation is in early spring when the plant is naturally gearing up for new growth.
how to Propagate Variegated Peace Lily (step by step)?
Prepare the Plant: Begin by watering the Peace Lily a day before to ease root separation.
Remove the Plant from its Pot: Gently slide the plant out of its pot, handling the root ball carefully to avoid breakage.
Locate Natural Divisions: Look for clusters with their own leaves and roots. Each division should have at least two leaves and healthy roots – this is shown in the image one to the left.
Separate Divisions: Using your hands or a clean knife, carefully split the root ball into sections. Avoid tearing roots—cut through them if necessary, ensuring each piece has its own root system.
Pot the Divisions: Place each new division in a pot with well-draining soil, like a mix of potting soil and perlite (2:1 ratio). Press gently around the roots to secure. It should look like the image two on the right, above.
how to care after propagating Variegated Peace Lily?
Water the new plants lightly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soaked. “Newly propagated plants need even moisture and indirect light for healthy growth.” – The Spruce
Troubleshooting common issues
1. Why are my variegated Peace Lily’s leaves drooping?
Cause: Drooping in variegated Peace Lilies usually points to either irregular watering, or low humidity.
Solution: Check the soil moisture – if the top inch is dry, it’s time for a thorough watering. You can also use moisture meter and if the reading says dry, then water. If this doesn’t work, consistent misting can help boost humidity and prevent leaves from drooping!
2. What causes fading or loss of variegation in my Peace Lily’s leaves?
Cause: Variegated Peace Lilies require more indirect sunlight than their fully green counterparts – too little light leads to fading
Solution: Move the plant to a brighter area with indirect light – just enough to keep the variegation vibrant without risking leaf burn from direct sunlight. East facing windows with gentle morning light are best.
4. Why isn’t my variegated Peace Lily flowering?
Cause: Inadequate light and insufficient nutrients can hold back blooms in variegated varieties.
Solution: Place it in bright, indirect light and feed monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during its active growing season which is spring and summer. Stop fertilizing during winter and fall if you want flowers to bloom during spring as over fertilization could lead to more foliage and lesser blooms
5. Why do I see dark spots on my variegated Peace Lily’s leaves?
Cause: Spots may develop due to fungal issues, often caused by overly moist conditions, or from over-fertilization.
Solution: Avoid getting the leaves wet and cut back on fertilizer – trim affected leaves and improve airflow around the plant to minimize fungal growth. You can also place the plant outside in a shaded spot as we do sometimes when this issue occurs.
6. Why are some of my Peace Lily’s leaves turning yellow?
Cause: Overwatering and poor drainage are top causes of yellowing leaves, though it can also occur as older leaves age.
Solution: Ensure the pot has adequate drainage – water only when the top inch of soil is dry. And prune any naturally aged yellow leaves to keep it looking healthy!
7. Why are the new leaves on my variegated Peace Lily coming in smaller than usual?
Cause: Small new leaves often result from low light, nutrient deficiencies, or rootbound conditions.
Solution: Let’s ensure it’s getting sufficient indirect light, and fertilize during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. If growth still remains stunted – it might be time to repot into a slightly larger container.
8. Why is my variegated Peace Lily growing long, leggy stems with fewer leaves?
Cause: Legginess often happens when the plant doesn’t receive enough light.
Solution: Let’s move it to a well-lit location with indirect sunlight. This will help it grow more compactly and avoid stretching out in search of light.
curated styling tips for Variegated Peace Lily
1.Tabletop Centerpiece with a Driftwood Tray: Showcase your Peace Lily on a wooden slab, placing it at the center of your dining or coffee table. Pair it with recycled glass candle holders or small thrifted ceramics for a harmonious, organic arrangement. The Peace Lily’s bold variegated leaves and compact shape make it an eye-catching, statement plant, perfect for an area with filtered light. Lightly mist the leaves every few days to keep them glossy and maintain humidity!
2.Windowsill Jungle with Ceramic Mug Planters: Turn your windowsill into a mini jungle by placing the variegated Peace Lily in a ceramic mug that fits snugly on the ledge. This setup works best for an east or north-facing window, where the plant receives soft morning light. Add a few smaller plants in mismatched mugs for an eclectic, cozy look. Mist lightly to maintain humidity and let excess water drain thoroughly to prevent root rot. Make sure to drill holes into the planter though!
3.Floating Window Shelf with Repurposed Wood: Install a floating shelf near a window using reclaimed wood, and place the variegated Peace Lily in a neutral planter. The floating shelf keeps surfaces clear while giving the Peace Lily a dedicated space to show off its unique foliage. Surround it with small glass jars filled with pebbles or dried botanicals for added natural texture.
FAQ
Is white Variegated Peace Lily toxic to pets?
Yes, Peace Lilies are toxic to cats and dogs due to calcium oxalate crystals!
Does Variegated Peace Lily like to be placed outside in summer?
We can give it some fresh air, but only in shaded, indirect light spots outside, avoiding direct sunlight. Make sure temperatures stay between 65-80°F to keep its variegation healthy.
What are advantages and disadvantages of Variegated Peace Lily?
This Peace Lily purifies the air, adds unique variegated charm, and requires low maintenance. However, it is toxic to pets and sensitive to direct sunlight and inconsistent watering.
Can the variegated Peace Lily handle low light, or does it need bright light?
While it tolerates low light, we’ll get the best variegation and growth in bright, indirect light. Too little light can cause the variegation to fade.
Are variegated Peace Lilies high-maintenance compared to other houseplants?
Not at all! Variegated Peace Lilies are relatively easy-going, needing moderate care with consistent watering, indirect light, and occasional feeding. They’re perfect for those looking for a beautiful yet manageable plant.
Do variegated Peace Lilies help with indoor air quality?
Absolutely! Variegated Peace Lilies, like their green counterparts, are known for air-purifying abilities, especially with removing indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene. Though a caveat here is that you’d need a lot of any kind of air purifying houseplants such as peace lily, to achieve any significant air purifying benefits.
