How to Grow and Care for Picasso Peace Lily

The Picasso Peace Lily, a variety of Spathiphyllum, is a coveted plant among houseplant enthusiasts. Its reputation comes from its dramatic and artistic foliage. This rare cultivar is prized for the unique visual appeal it brings to an indoor space. The unpredictable nature of its leaf patterns means no two plants are exactly alike, adding to its desirability.

Identifying a Picasso Peace Lily

The defining feature of a Picasso Peace Lily is its striking variegation. The leaves display large, distinct blocks of pure white against a deep, glossy green. This is known as sectoral variegation, where sections of the leaf are devoid of chlorophyll, creating a random, painted appearance. The patterns can change as the plant matures.

This bold patterning distinguishes it from other variegated cultivars like the ‘Domino’. The ‘Domino’ peace lily features a more speckled or marbled pattern with smaller splashes of white, rather than the large blocks of color characteristic of the Picasso.

Essential Care Guide

Light

Proper lighting is fundamental to the health and appearance of a Picasso Peace Lily. This plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to flourish. An ideal location is near an east-facing window, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window if shielded by a sheer curtain.

Too little light will cause the white variegation to fade as the plant produces more chlorophyll. Conversely, direct sunlight will scorch the delicate foliage.

Watering

The Picasso Peace Lily needs consistent moisture but is highly susceptible to overwatering. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as this plant can be sensitive to chemicals in tap water.

When watering, allow water to run through the drainage holes and discard any excess from the saucer to prevent root rot. You will need to water more frequently during the spring and summer growing seasons than in the fall and winter.

Soil

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is an excellent choice. These mixes retain adequate moisture but also allow excess water to drain, ensuring roots have access to oxygen. You can create your own mix by combining indoor potting soil with perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage.

Repot every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a new pot that is only one to two inches larger in diameter. A pot that is too large can hold excess moisture, increasing the risk of root rot.

Temperature and Humidity

As a tropical plant, the Picasso Peace Lily thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers room temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations and drafts from windows, air conditioners, or heating vents.

This plant also appreciates high humidity. If your home’s air is dry, you can increase humidity by misting the leaves a few times a week, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a small room humidifier nearby.

Fertilizing

The Picasso Peace Lily benefits from regular feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, every 6-8 weeks from spring through summer. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil that can burn the roots and cause brown leaf tips.

Always apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn. Cease fertilizing during the fall and winter when growth is dormant, and resume in the spring.

Managing Variegation and Common Issues

Preventing Brown Spots on White Variegation

The white sections of the Picasso’s leaves are more delicate because they lack chlorophyll. This makes them susceptible to browning from several factors. The most common causes are direct sun exposure, inconsistent watering, or low humidity.

To prevent browning, maintain a consistent care routine. Ensure the plant receives only bright, indirect light and proper humidity. Water consistently, using filtered or distilled water to avoid mineral buildup that can also cause browning.

Dealing with Leaf Reversion

Leaf reversion is when a variegated plant produces all-green leaves, losing its coloration. In Picasso Peace Lilies, this is often a response to insufficient light, as the plant produces more chlorophyll to compensate.

If you notice new leaves emerging without variegation, move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sun. To manage the reversion, prune off the solid green leaves at their base. This encourages the plant to produce new, variegated growth.

Common Pests

The Picasso Peace Lily can attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves and where the leaf stems meet the main plant to catch an infestation early.

If pests are found, isolate the plant to prevent them from spreading. For minor infestations, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them. For more significant issues, an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can be an effective treatment.

Propagating a Picasso Peace Lily

The most reliable method for propagating a Picasso Peace Lily is through division. This process is best done during spring or summer when you are repotting the plant, as it minimizes stress. Peace lilies naturally grow in clumps with offshoots from the main root system, making them ideal for this technique.

To begin, carefully remove the plant from its pot and shake off excess soil to expose the root ball. Identify natural separations where there are distinct clumps of leaves and roots. It is important to select a division that has a healthy portion of roots and at least a few leaves showing good variegation.

Using your hands or a clean, sharp knife, gently tease the clumps apart, ensuring each new section has a well-developed root system.

Pot each division into its own container with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Water the new plants thoroughly and place them in a location with bright, indirect light and high humidity to help them recover and encourage new growth.