Not a true grass (Peace Lily)
Spathiphyllum wallisii · Perennial, Tropical, Evergreen (not a C3/C4 grass)
Grass Family
Araceae (Arum family), not Poaceae
Grass Category
Houseplant / Ornamental Indoor Foliage
Variety / Cultivar
Standard Spathiphyllum
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 11-12; typically grown strictly as an indoor houseplant in cooler climates.
About This Grass
A popular indoor ornamental with large, glossy, dark green elliptical leaves. Though called a lily, it is not a true lily. It produces a distinctive white spathe (modified leaf) surrounding a spadix (flower spike).
Blade Characteristics
Wide, lance-shaped leaves (not blades) with prominent midribs and wavy margins; dark green, glossy, with a pointed tip and long petioles.
Root System
Fleshy rhizomatous root system; prefers staying slightly pot-bound; sensitive to overwatering.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Tropical regions of Central and South America
Growth Habit
Clumping/Rhizomatous (tight clusters arising from a central rootstock)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Low to medium light (shade tolerant); requires consistent moisture and high humidity; sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in water.
Mowing & Maintenance
No mowing required; maintenance includes wiping dust from leaves, removing spent blooms/yellow leaves, and occasional repotting.
Special Characteristics
High shade tolerance; identifies as a top air-purifying plant; leaves droop dramatically when thirsty to signal need for water.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Cultivated worldwide as an indoor plant; poisonous to cats and dogs if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals.