How to Grow and Care for Red Peace Lily Plant

The red peace lily offers a striking variation on the classic houseplant, known for its elegant form and air-purifying qualities. While traditional Spathiphyllum have brilliant white flowers, this “red” version provides a dramatic alternative with its deep color. The plant’s glossy, dark green foliage creates a lush backdrop for its colorful spathes, which are the modified leaves we perceive as flowers. Its appearance adds a touch of the tropics to a home or office environment.

Understanding Red Peace Lily Varieties

When seeking a “red peace lily,” it is important to know what this term refers to. The plant sold under this name is most often a species of Anthurium, not a true Spathiphyllum. Both are in the Araceae family and share a similar flower structure consisting of a central spike (spadix) surrounded by a modified leaf (spathe), which leads to confusion.

True red Spathiphyllum cultivars exist but are less common, with spathes that are a deep maroon or burgundy. In contrast, red Anthurium varieties, or flamingo flowers, have a brighter, glossier, heart-shaped spathe. The leaves also differ, as peace lilies have oval or lance-shaped foliage, while anthurium leaves are more distinctly heart-shaped.

Essential Care Guide

Light

These plants flourish in bright, indirect light, making an east-facing window an ideal location. This spot provides gentle morning sun without the harshness of direct afternoon rays. While tolerant of low-light, insufficient light can slow growth and prevent flowering. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, causing them to burn and dry out.

Water

Water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry. The plant will often signal its thirst with drooping leaves, which should perk up within a few hours of watering. Using filtered or rainwater is preferable, as these plants can be sensitive to chemicals like fluoride in tap water. While they appreciate moist soil, it is important that it is not waterlogged.

Soil

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is suitable for this plant. You can create your own mix by combining standard potting soil with perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating, which is a primary cause of root rot. Repotting every couple of years, preferably in the spring, will refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Temperature and Humidity

As tropical natives, these plants thrive in warmth and humidity, with an ideal temperature range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Avoid placing them near drafts from windows, heaters, or air conditioners. To increase humidity in dry environments, you can mist the leaves, place the pot on a tray of pebbles and water, or use a room humidifier.

Fertilizer

During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer about once a month. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid overwhelming the plant. An excess of nitrogen can inhibit blooming or cause green-tinged flowers. Always water the plant before fertilizing to prevent root burn.

How to Encourage Red Blooms

A plant’s maturity is a prerequisite for flowering, as young plants are not developed enough to produce spathes. Proper care provides the energy reserves needed for blooming, but a few specific adjustments can help encourage it.

The most impactful step is providing sufficient light, as a mature plant often needs a brighter location with consistent, indirect sunlight to trigger flower production. Some gardeners find success by providing a brief rest period with slightly reduced watering to mimic seasonal changes. Using a fertilizer formulated for flowering plants can also provide the needed nutrient balance.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

You may encounter a few common issues with your plant. Brown leaf tips are often a result of low humidity or chemicals in tap water, so increasing humidity can help. Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering, so check the soil moisture and allow it to dry out before watering again.

Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap. A drooping plant usually indicates thirst, but if the soil is soggy, it may be a sign of root rot, requiring you to check the roots and repot if necessary.

Toxicity Information

Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains sharp, needle-like calcium oxalate crystals that embed in the tissues of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract when chewed, causing immediate irritation and pain.

Symptoms of ingestion include oral pain, intense burning, drooling, and swelling of the lips and tongue. In cats and dogs, you might also observe pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. While rarely fatal, severe swelling can obstruct the airway. Place the plant in a location safely out of reach of children and pets.