The Perfect Houseplant

Peace lily blends handsome leaves with nearly nonstop blooms.

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  • The Perfect Houseplant

    In a small room, use smaller peace lilies. Given bright light, they'll bloom almost continuously.

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Laurey W. Glenn (Styling by Alan Henderson)

Versatile to the Max
Why, besides being an exceptionally kind person, do I have a peace lily in almost every room? One big reason is the number of sizes and kinds available. For example, more compact types such as 'Power Petite' and 'Sweet Chico' are suitable for tabletops and plant stands. Depending on the pot size (they grow larger in bigger pots), they may reach anywhere from 10 to 20 inches tall and wide. Steven Hotchkiss of Oglesby Plants International in Altha, Florida, says the dark green foliage of 'Power Petite' is amazingly glossy. "I've had customers ask me what we polished the leaves with," he says.

Most peace lilies serve as floor plants, however, growing about 3 feet tall and wide with big, bold leaves about 10 inches long. Place these in corners, beside end tables, or on either side of the fireplace (when there's no fire, of course). 'Mauna Loa Supreme' (also sold as 'Supreme') is the standard midsize type. It grows up to 4 feet tall and wide with broad, shiny leaves and an abundance of large, cupped spathes.

Have a large room that needs a really big plant? Try 'Sensation,' the largest peace lily by far. Featuring thick, deeply ribbed, paddle-shaped leaves up to 20 inches long, it grows 4 to 6 feet tall and wide. Even when not blooming, it dominates the space.

 

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