Nature has generously endowed spathiphyllum with all the qualities that make it so beloved and popular.
Content
The emerald green leaf and snow-white blanket of fragrant inflorescence of the classic Spathiphyllum specimen invariably create an elegant accent in the interior of any room.
Brought as a gift, the flower with its elegance emphasizes the significance of a solemn event - a graduation ball, a wedding, an anniversary, the birth of a child. Gardeners and florists value the plant not only for its beauty and exotic long flowering, but also for its simple care, which even a beginner can handle.
And legends and stories say that the flower has magical properties - it helps to find love and maintain female happiness.
Description
The homeland of the spathiphyllum plant is the humid equatorial forests of South America and Southeast Asia. The flower was discovered and described by the German botanist collector Gustav Wallis. The route of his expedition in 1858-1866 passed along the entire course of the Amazon, from its mouth to its source. During the study of the river and its main tributaries, Wallis discovered more than a hundred species of exotic endemic plants. In 1872, this collection, including spathiphyllum, was sent to England.
At first, the flower was cultivated only in the greenhouses of the Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew Gardens). But soon it became an adornment of fashionable London mansions: the exceptional decorative qualities of the plant fully corresponded to the aesthetic concepts of the Victorian era. And a few years later, the flower became popular in all European countries.
Spathiphyllum is a herbaceous evergreen perennial plant of the Araceae family with the following botanical characteristics.
The underground part, which the flower uses to anchor itself in the upper layers of soil, consists of a short vertical rhizome and well-branched fibrous roots.
The above-ground part of the spathiphyllum includes leaves, inflorescences and fruits.
- Leaves grow directly from the soil, forming a basal rosette. Depending on the plant species, the shape of the leaves varies from ovate-lanceolate to oblong-elliptical, and their size can reach from 15 to 72 cm. The surface of the leaf blade is dark green, glossy, with clearly visible venation. The petiole of the leaf is equal to the length of the blade or slightly shorter than it. The pulvinus - a thickening at the base of the leaf - serves the spathiphyllum to "control" the alternate arrangement of the leaves and create a cascade effect due to this.
- Inflorescence is a sessile or stalked spadix - an elongated cone of greenish-white or cream color with small, prickly bisexual flowers. An elliptical spathe curves around it, which is sometimes mistakenly called a petal: in fact, it is a modified leaf-bract. The color of the spathe depends on the plant's species and varies from light green to cream and white.
- After flowering, they are formed fruit — shiny green berries filled with small seeds. The fruits ripen in greenhouse conditions with artificial pollination.
Spathiphyllum is the international scientific name of the genus to which the plant belongs. It can be considered a short description of what the flower looks like: the first part of the word, spathe, means "covering", the second, phyllon, translates as "leaf".
Spathiphyllum also has common names and synonyms:
- White Sail;
- Peace Lily;
- Bride's flower;
- White sheet;
- Veil of the Madonna;
- Moon flower.
But the most famous name of the plant, endowed with magical properties, is "women's happiness". Legend has it that Astarte, the Sumerian goddess of fertility and the personification of the feminine principle, breathed a particle of her overwhelming happiness into the spathiphyllum on her wedding day. Since then, it is believed that the flower brings love, helps to preserve youth and charm for every girl who believes in its power.
There are different opinions about the magical qualities attributed to the plant. However, there are scientific facts that indicate that spathiphyllum is able to improve the microclimate in the space around it. Research conducted by NASA has shown that spathiphyllum:
- has bactericidal properties;
- purifies the air from a number of harmful substances, including benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde;
- Suppresses the dispersal of spores and the growth of mold fungi.
Due to these properties, the plant is used both independently and as part of phytogroups for the sanitation of various types of premises.
Types
Selection work was carried out mainly with two types of culture: Spathiphyllum floribundum (profusely flowering spathiphyllum) and Spathiphyllum Wallisii (Wallis's spathiphyllum, or Japanese). Beginning in the 60s of the last century, new varieties and hybrids of the plant appeared. Today, there are several dozen cultivars of spathiphyllum, differing in the size of the bush, the color of the leaves and perianth. The most popular species among flower growers are those used for interior and landscape design - the large-leaved giant Royal, the spectacular in its decorativeness Sensation, the always attracting attention variegated Domino, exuding a subtle aroma Chopin.
Abundantly flowering
Spathiphyllum floribundum is a medium-sized variety with a bush height of 30–60 cm. The plant makes a spectacular impression due to the contrast of the dark green velvety surface of the leaf blade and its light central vein.
Flowering is long-term, with the formation of a large number of flower stalks. The peculiarity of caring for the abundantly flowering spathiphyllum is to provide the plant with high air humidity and good air exchange.
Mauna Loa
Spathiphyllum Mauna Loa is obtained by hybridization of Spathiphyllum floribundum. The height of an adult plant reaches 50 cm. The leaves are bright green, oblong, lanceolate, with an elongated pointed end. The length of the leaf is 20 cm, the width is 6 cm. The cover is snow-white, with a cream shade at the base. The flowers are large: from 10 to 13 cm in length and up to 6 cm in width. Due to the unpretentiousness of the variety, even beginners can cope with the cultivation of Mauna Loa.
Spathiphyllum Wallis
The origin of the species is the equatorial forests of Colombia. The name is associated with the name of the researcher who first described the plant. The bush reaches 45 cm in height. The leaf blade is oblong-lanceolate, dark green, up to 25 cm long. The spadix is long and narrow. The cover, pure white at the beginning of flowering, gradually becomes light green. Spathiphyllum wallisii is characterized by long and abundant flowering.
Selection work with the species has made it possible to obtain many new cultivars and hybrids of spathiphyllums. Almost all of them easily adapt to new conditions and tolerate manipulations with the root system well. The main characteristics of the most popular of them are given below.
(Spathiphyllum Domino)
The bush is low, up to 50 cm. A characteristic feature of the variety is a variegated leaf blade: a multitude of white spots, stripes, and strokes randomly located on a dark green background. Good lighting is required to preserve the variegated color of the leaves. The spadix is white or yellowish, the bract is pure white. During the flowering period, Domino exudes a subtle aroma in the morning, gradually disappearing by midday.
(Spathiphyllum Chopin)
One of the most spectacular varieties of spathiphyllum. The bush is of medium height, about 35 cm. The leaf blades are intensely green, glossy, with pointed tips and clearly visible venation. The spadix is bright white, with a greenish tint. The bract is elongated, pointed, whitish-green. The delicate aroma of the flowers is felt throughout the first half of the day.
(Spathiphyllum Sensation)
The Dutch hybrid Sensation is the most famous, popular and spectacular giant: the size of the bush of an adult plant reaches 1.5 m in height and 2 m in width. The leaf blade is up to 60 cm long and up to 30 cm wide, with well-defined ribbing. The long peduncle is crowned with a large white coverlet framing a light yellow cob.
(Spathiphyllum Alana)
Medium-tall hybrid from Holland: the height of the bush is about 50 cm. The position of the leaves remains almost vertical as it grows. The leaf blade is dense, glossy, rich emerald color. The cover is wide, pointed, with a clearly visible green vein on the back side.
(Spathiphyllum Vivaldi)
The variety is medium-sized: the height of the bush is about 50 cm. The leaf blades are rich dark green and have an oval shape. The central vein is clearly visible on the leaf. The spadix is cylindrical and white-cream in color. The perianth is medium-sized, white on the inside, green on the outside.
(Spathiphyllum Sweet Lauretta)
Like other hybrids of the line, the plant is tall and lush: the height of the bush reaches 80 cm, in width Sweet Lauretta grows up to 85 cm. The leaves are oval-oblong, bright green, with clearly visible lighter veins. The inflorescence is large, soft cream or creamy white.
(Spathiphyllum Cupido)
Hybrid from the Netherlands. Compact bush up to half a meter high. Leaf blade is bright green, glossy, medium density, with moderately pronounced veins. The spadix is light yellow. The cover is pure white, slightly curved, pointed at the top. The main advantage of Cupido is abundant and long flowering.
(Spathiphyllum Diamond)
The square silhouette of the bush is formed due to approximately equal growth in height and width - up to 45 cm. The variety is variegated: a scattering of white stripes and inclusions is noticeable on the dark green leaf blade. The spadix is short, cream-colored. The cover is snow-white, with a clearly visible, effectively pointed edge.
(Spathiphyllum Bellini)
Compact bush up to 40 cm high. Leaf blade about 30 cm long, with smooth glossy surface, wavy edges. Cob is rounded, shortened, protrudes forward, separating from the cover. Perianth is elongated, narrow, with a well-defined pointed edge and a green vein on the outer side.
(Spathiphyllum Angel Baby, Angel Baby)
This is a miniature cultivar of Spathiphyllum Wallisii. The height of an adult bush does not exceed 25 cm. The leaves are narrow, lanceolate. The variegation is uneven, stable, becomes brighter with good lighting, when the plant is kept in the shade, the white areas lose their color intensity.
(Spathiphyllum Silver Rain, Silver Rain)
The great similarity of this variety with Domino is noted due to the "crinkled" texture of the leaf blade. However, the width of the leaf is slightly larger, the variegation is more pronounced, the adult plant reaches a height of 60 cm. The variety is unpretentious and suitable for beginners.
Spathiphyllum cannofolia
The species is found in Venezuela and Thailand. The ovoid leaves have a velvety surface and are rich green in color, reaching 80 cm in length. The fragrant inflorescence consists of a greenish-white cover and a yellow-green cob.
Nice
The variety is also known as Spathiphyllum blandum Schott, Spathiphyllum Spilt Milk. The natural habitat covers the tropical forest zones of Central America - Guatemala, Belize, Honduras. Spathiphyllum amabilis is still a rare species for home gardening. The height of the bush of an adult plant is about 70 cm. The leaf is lanceolate, pointed at the end, glossy, milky-white on the outside, light green on the inside, reaching 20-35 cm in length. The bract is white with a greenish tint. The species is characterized by slow growth, but its hybrids do not have this drawback.
Hybrids obtained from Spathiphyllum blandum Schott:
Spoon-shaped
The homeland of the Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum is the humid tropics of Brazil. One of the tallest representatives among its relatives: an adult plant reaches 1.5 m in length. The size of the leaf blade is up to 40 cm in length, up to 25 cm in width. The dark green leaf is in the form of an elongated ellipse, glossy, with wavy edges.
Hybrids of the species are very effective, but to achieve this, you will need to provide the plants with increased humidity during the dormant period. One of them is the giant Sunny Sails. It is characterized by variegated leaves: light yellow and white blotches on a green background. The intensity of the color of the variegated areas directly depends on the brightness of the lighting.
Heliconia-leaved
Official name: Spathiphyllum heliconiifolium. Country of origin: Brazil. The bush is tall, reaches 1 meter. A species with pronounced decorative qualities. It got its name for the similarity of the bract shape with the wide bell of the musical instrument helicon.
The coverlet is oval-shaped, with a pointed tip, snow-white, with a slight greenish tint, can reach 20 cm in length. The leaf is dark green, oblong-elliptical, with a shiny surface, wavy edges and a sharp end. The leaf size is up to 25 cm in width and 50 cm in length. The spadix is about 10 cm long, white at the beginning of flowering, gradually becoming almost black.
Red Spathiphyllums
The common belief that spathiphyllum inflorescences can have a red or pink hue is wrong. Most species and cultivars of Spathiphyllum have a white cover with different gradations. Under certain conditions, as well as in representatives of variegated varieties, the perianth has a green color or inclusions of this tone. Obtaining any other colors of the spathiphyllum cover is possible only with the use of chemical dyes, which are added to the peduncle, soil or water for watering the plant.
But there is a close relative of "women's happiness", the bract of which can be painted in burgundy, red, pink tones of varying intensity. This is anthurium, also known as "men's happiness". Of the large variety of Anthurium cultivars, the following varieties have an external resemblance to Spathiphyllum.
It is believed that anthurium enhances male energy, attracts luck and prosperity for the stronger sex. This explains both the popular name of the flower and its frequent neighborhood in the house with its relative spathiphyllum, a living talisman of female happiness.
Rare varieties
The following cultivars can be considered rare.
(Spathiphyllum Schlechteri)
Synonymous name: Holochlamys Schlechteri. The plant's habitat is New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago. The species does not belong to any of the spathiphyllum sections, although it outwardly resembles representatives of the genus Spathiphyllum with oval or lanceolate leaf blades and the structure of the inflorescence - a spadix with a covering that twines around it.
(Spathiphyllum Lemon Glow)
A compact hybrid with a bush height of up to 40 cm. It is interesting for its unusual coloring of glossy leaf blades. In bright light, it is a pronounced lemon color; in full shade, the leaves take on a yellow-green hue. When the plant returns to its usual conditions, the color of the leaf blades again becomes the species color.
(Spathiphyllum cannifolium Silver Dust)
An unpretentious variety, resistant to dry air. The height of an adult plant is about 70 cm. A characteristic feature of the surface of the leaf blade is variegation, expressed by chaotic small white strokes.
(Spathiphyllum Deli)
A hybrid variety originating from Indonesia. This subspecies has two leaf blade color options: gray-green with matte small white spots and multi-colored, shimmering with tones from dark green to light yellow. The bush is medium-sized, with wide lanceolate leaves.
These varieties of spathiphyllum have not become widespread in home gardening, primarily due to their high cost.
Care tips
Most cultivated species of spathiphyllum are unpretentious and do not require specific care. The main secret to success in growing a flower is creating home conditions as close to natural as possible.
Temperature, light and humidity
Information about the plant's need for light, humidity, and the required temperature conditions is important in order to place the spathiphyllum in the most suitable place immediately after purchase.
In its natural habitats, spathiphyllum exists in conditions of high air humidity and moderate temperatures. The plant is an inhabitant of the lower tiers of the tropical forest, where almost no direct sunlight penetrates.
For reference. The lack of natural light is compensated by using diode or fluorescent lamps. With artificial lighting, spathiphyllum not only grows well, but even blooms.
The optimal temperature range is considered to be 16–30 °C. In winter, during the dormant period, the temperature is maintained at 16–18 °C, and in summer – from 22 °C to 27 °C.
In natural conditions, spathiphyllum does not experience a lack of hydration: in the places where it grows, the amount of uniformly falling precipitation is up to 5,000 mm per year.
The plant is perfectly adapted to high humidity. The smooth surface of large leaves with pointed tips absorbs the necessary amount of moisture and makes its excess drain, preventing microorganisms and bryophytes (mosses) from developing on the plant.
The easiest way to increase air humidity when growing at home is to spray the plant. In winter, this is done twice a day, in summer - once every 1-2 days.
Additionally, to increase the humidity level in the premises, you can use the following methods.
- Place open containers of water next to the spathiphyllum.
- Place a layer of expanded clay on a wide metal or ceramic tray and place the pot with the plant on it. Pour water into the tray so that its level is no higher than the bottom of the pot. When watering the plant, the water will flow through the drainage holes in the pot onto the expanded clay, moistening it and then constantly evaporating into the air.
- Use air humidifiers - electric, ultrasonic or regular ceramic ones, attached to the heating battery.
In summer, the plant is comfortable in a room with sufficient air exchange. The room should be ventilated regularly, but drafts that are harmful to the plant should be avoided.
Priming
In the climate of the Amazon basin, the "historical" homeland of spathiphyllum, plant remains falling to the ground are quickly destroyed by bacteria and immediately absorbed by plant roots, without having time to accumulate in the soil. Therefore, such soils are poor in nutrients. The content of organic active part (humus) in them does not exceed 5%.
For keeping spathiphyllum in the house, light, loose, moist soil with good air permeability and slight acidity is suitable.
Experienced gardeners know how to independently prepare a soil mixture, which includes turf or garden soil and compost. Beginners can take advantage of the offers of specialized trading platforms. The range of ready-made soil mixtures for indoor plants includes special soils for spathiphyllums ("Vermion", "Original").
Important. When purchasing a ready-made soil mixture, you should definitely pay attention to the information on the packaging, which indicates the composition, pH level of the soil and what types of plants it is intended for.
If they are not available for sale, an alternative option is soil mixtures for aroids (Seliger-Agro, Bio Master, Eco Garden) and flowering tropical plants. You can also use brands of universal soils if you first lighten them and reduce the acidity by adding sand, ash, perlite, coconut shavings (or small bark chips). The amount of these components should not exceed 10% of the mass of the soil used as a basis.
Transfer
Repotting is a routine stage of home care for spathiphyllum. It is usually done once every 2-3 years, when the root system of the flower grows, filling the pot. In addition, over time, the soil becomes depleted and compacted, which worsens its nutritional and air exchange qualities.
It is best to replant the plant in the spring. A month before the planned event, fertilizers are applied, the quality of watering is improved. The procedure is carried out according to the following scheme.
At the preliminary stage, the work area is prepared.
You will need:
Next, proceed step by step.
Place both pots on the work surface - the one with the plant and the new one.
- Drainage is placed in the new container.Important. For most aroids, the formation of aerial roots is normal - growths or small tubercles on the trunk of the rhizome. When replanting, do not deepen them into the soil too much. This will allow the plant to additionally retain moisture for a long time.
- Water the soil in the flower pot generously.
- Turn it on its side and, taking the plant by the main stem, carefully remove the plant from the pot with a lump of soil using a scoop.
- The rhizome is cleared of old drainage.
- Carefully inspect the root system, trim damaged, dead roots if necessary. At this stage, if necessary, you can divide the bush into several parts.
- Using pruning shears, cut off flower stalks, too young and withered leaves, if any.
- The bases of old leaves are torn off.
- Important. It is necessary to regulate the planting depth - make sure that the lower leaves of the flower are 5 cm from the soil surface. If necessary, add soil to raise the plant.The spathiphyllum is placed in a new pot and covered with soil.
- Use a shovel to lightly compact the soil so that air pockets do not form in it.
- Spray and water the plant generously. If the soil is heavily subsiding, add the required amount.
The transplanted plant is placed in a well-shaded place for 7-10 days.
If the pot becomes cramped for a young plant, it is carefully transferred to a larger container.
Reasons why transplantation should be postponed to autumn instead of spring:
- the need to completely replace the soil mixture in the pot when signs of its severe depletion are clearly visible - a long absence of flowering, crushing and wilting of leaf blades;
- the appearance of aerial roots above the surface of the soil that no longer fit within the volume of the pot;
- strong growth of the flower with the formation of a large number of lateral shoots.
A properly transplanted spathiphyllum will adapt more easily to new conditions.
Bloom
The first flowering of spathiphyllum is usually observed in the second year after planting. Then it happens annually. The calendar periodicity and duration of the process depend on the species to which the flower belongs and the growing conditions. Typical periods are from March to the end of August. Sometimes flowering can resume in the fall.
Reproduction
In natural habitats, spathiphyllum reproduces by seeds. In amateur gardening, this practice is almost never used. Even in conditions close to natural, the process of development from seed to flowering plant will take about three years, and artificial pollination, which is necessary for this method, is very difficult to carry out at home.
A simple and effective way to propagate a flower is by dividing the rhizome, when several independent rosettes are formed from an adult plant. The event is carried out in the same order as transplantation. The only difference is that when dividing the bush, you need to pay attention to the fact that each root has a growth point and 2-3 leaf blades.
Important. It is impossible to propagate spathiphyllum by leaf, since rooting does not occur.
Another method of vegetative propagation is cuttings, when rosettes of leaves are separated from an adult specimen. The separated cuttings may have their own roots or be without them. Cuttings with roots can be immediately planted in a pot with soil. This is done according to the scheme of transplantation or division of the rhizome.
The procedure for planting cuttings without roots is as follows. To speed up the rooting process, you need to create greenhouse conditions for the planting material:
- the spathiphyllum shoot is dipped into a liquid growth stimulator (for example, Kornevin, Ideal) and set aside for 15–20 minutes;
- dissolve 1–2 tablets of activated carbon in a small container with settled water;
- place the cutting in the solution so that only its bottom is in the liquid;
- The seedling is sprayed with water and covered with plastic film or a plastic bottle cut below the neck.
Then the film is removed daily to spray the planting material with water and air it out.
With this method, rooting usually occurs within three weeks, and then the cutting can be planted in the ground.
Watering
In spring, summer and during the flowering period, spathiphyllum requires abundant watering. However, over-watering is unacceptable: the top layer of soil should dry out between waterings.
The time it takes for the soil to dry varies depending on the following factors:
- climatic conditions;
- current weather;
- plant and pot dimensions;
- flower growth phase;
- condition of potting soil.
Therefore, before watering, you should always check the soil for dryness. You can test whether the soil is dry enough by sticking your finger, pencil or wooden stick into the soil. In winter and autumn, the plant's need for moisture decreases, the flower needs a moderate hydration regime.
Spathiphyllum is sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride. To avoid harming the plant, it is best to use settled, filtered or dechlorinated drinking water at room temperature, as well as collected rainwater.
Pot
In natural growing conditions, the small thickness of the humus layer forces the root system of the spathiphyllum to spread horizontally in the upper layers of the soil, where nutrients and minerals are mainly accumulated. This should be taken into account when choosing a pot for the plant. First of all, pay attention to the diameter, material of the planting container, and the presence of drainage holes. Depth, as a less important parameter, can be small.
An incorrectly selected pot negatively affects the development and decorative properties of “women’s happiness”:
- the root system is experiencing a deficiency of nutrients;
- the turgor of plant tissues decreases;
- leaves turn yellow and wither;
- flowering stops.
The optimal diameter of a pot intended for seedlings no higher than 10 cm is 9–10 cm. In such a container, the roots will fully develop.
As your “female happiness” grows, you will need a more capacious container.
For fully formed, adult plants, select a pot with a diameter of 18–20 cm.
When choosing a material, it is best to choose a container made of unglazed ceramics. Its porous structure allows excess moisture to evaporate and improves air exchange in the soil. Earthenware products are also good: from a variety of original, author's works, you can always choose a product that will organically fit into the interior, adding individuality to it.
Important. A planting container made of transparent or dark glass is not only dangerous because of its fragility: the soil in it will overheat, preventing the root system from developing properly.
Lightweight, durable and inexpensive plastic pots are popular. However, it should be noted that in a product made of airtight material, soil aeration is impossible, and if the plant is overwatered, its roots will begin to rot.
For the same reason, metal, plaster or stone planting containers are not recommended for spathiphyllum.
Fertilizers
Being an unpretentious plant, "women's happiness" does not require intensive feeding. However, during periods of active growth and flowering, fertilization should be regular. The plant should be fed by alternating organic and mineral compositions.
"Women's happiness" responds well to fertilizers containing nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus:
Reference. The marking on the packaging of ready-made fertilizers in the form of a sequence of numbers separated by a hyphen indicates the content of N, P, K in the product. For example, the inscription "9-3-6" means that the complex contains 9% nitrogen, 3% phosphorus, 6% potassium. The remaining volume is an inert mixture, the introduction of which is determined by the technology of fertilizer production. For spathiphyllums, the optimal NPK ratio is 3:1:2, so complexes with the corresponding marking are preferable: "24-8-16", "12-4-8", etc.
For fertilizing spathiphyllum, special preparations intended for aroid plants are recommended, as well as universal products for indoor flowers, for example, “Green House”, “Garden of Wonders”, “Bona Forte”, “Master”.
The table below suggests a feeding schedule.
Period | Frequency of fertilization |
---|---|
From March to May | 2 times a month |
June, July, August | 1 time per week |
September, 1st half of October | Once every 2 weeks |
From the second half of October to the beginning of December | 1 time in 3 weeks |
During the dormant period, fertilizers are applied once a month only to weakened plants that have been attacked by pests.
When applying fertilizers, in addition to the frequency, it is important to observe the correct dosage of the composition: both excess and deficiency of nutrients are harmful. With excessive feeding, spathiphyllum actively increases green mass without flowering, brown spots appear on the leaves. Exhaustion of the plant will lead to the fact that its growth will stop, against the background of a change in the color of the leaves to pale green, their size will decrease. Such plants have weak immunity to fungal infections.
It is not recommended to apply any fertilizers in the following cases:
- if the plant was recently purchased or has been replanted;
- in case of infection or damage by pests;
- during flowering;
- in hot weather.
Experiments with supplements are not advisable if your “female happiness” is in excellent shape.
Signs and superstitions
The symbolism of spathiphyllum is interesting and diverse. The flower has a variety of meanings - from hope and peace to innocence and purity. There are many beliefs and signs around the plant, but most of them are associated with love relationships, marriage, family.
- The attractiveness and beauty of a girl who has not yet met her beloved will be more evident if you put a pot with spathiphyllum in her bedroom.
- Many believe that the beginning of the flowering of spathiphyllum foretells a proposal of marriage to a young unmarried girl who is caring for the plant.
- Spathiphyllum often acts as a symbol of chastity, purity, virtue and tenderness. Therefore, the flower is an ideal gift for women who are striving for marriage and opening a new chapter in their lives. The "bride's flower" should be presented by the closest male relatives - father or brother.
- If a spathiphyllum given by a man blooms beautifully, this speaks of his sincere, deep feelings for his chosen one. A plant that withers even with good care is a sign that not everything is well in the relationship of the partners.
- The family will be strong, the relationship will become harmonious if the spouses simultaneously inhale the aroma of blooming spathiphyllum.
To protect a couple from possible betrayal and jealousy, to give new strength to fading feelings, the flower should be placed closer to the bed.
- If the opened inflorescence of spathiphyllum resembles the rounded outlines of a pregnant woman’s figure, you can expect a quick addition to the family.
- Another belief associated with motherhood states that the plant promotes conception, including long-awaited, easy pregnancy and successful childbirth.
- Spathiphyllum can be a wonderful gift for those who have just had a baby: the plant will not only be a reminder of the innocence of the newborn, but will also strengthen the parents' hope for a bright future for the baby.
- Beautiful and long-lasting flowering of spathiphyllum in the house means that children will grow up healthy and happy.
- If several plants bloom in an apartment at the same time, happiness and good luck await all household members.
An unfriendly atmosphere, frequent quarrels and scandals in the house are destructive for spathiphyllum. There is a sign that as the plant withers, so does family well-being.
- Spathiphyllum is considered a symbol of peace and tranquility: its inflorescence resembles a white flag, which means a call for truce. Giving a plant is a great idea to put an end to a long-standing feud or start a relationship from scratch.
- Spathiphyllum is endowed with the ability to heal from illnesses and form the correct emotional-psychological balance. The plant is an ideal green "companion" for those who are recovering from an illness or recovering from depression caused by difficult life situations.
- Esotericists associate spathiphyllum with abundance, wealth and use the plant in a ritual to attract money. To do this, place the plant in the room where savings are kept, put a yellow coin under the pot, and hang a green ribbon with a key on the plant itself. Achieving the goal is activated by speaking out loud about your desire for material well-being. When the plant blooms, the ribbon is changed to a red one and the same key is attached to it. As experts assure, luck will not keep you waiting: a large cash win, a significant salary increase, profitable financial offers will be a reward for those who believe in the magical power of spathiphyllum.
In order for the plant to always display the properties of a keeper of happiness, love and prosperity, it must be looked after, surrounded with attention, care and not be afraid to confide in it your most cherished desires.
Diseases and pests
Despite the simplicity of caring for spathiphyllum, the flower is nevertheless susceptible to diseases caused by pests, viruses and careless attitude to the rules of maintenance. How to save "women's happiness" from death, everyone in whose house this noble plant lives needs to know.
Constant careful inspection of the flower helps to notice the first symptoms of pest damage in a timely manner. This is important for successful control of insects. The most common types of pests parasitize on the above-ground parts of the spathiphyllum - aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites. If their presence is detected, the plant must be treated with insecticides. Simple methods - washing or spraying with a solution of laundry soap or tobacco - are ineffective due to the complex structure of the bush and the large total area of its surface.
The root system diseases are caused by root mealybugs, phytopathogenic fungi, and nematodes. The measure to combat mealybugs is watering twice a week with a pink solution of KMnO4 (potassium permanganate). The development of rot caused by fungi is stopped by removing the affected areas of the roots, followed by treatment with fungicides, such as the drug "Gliocladin". An emergency transplant of the flower will be necessary if nematodes are noticed in the soil.
The plant does not bloom
An adult plant may not bloom for several reasons. The most likely ones are:
- the pot volume is larger than necessary;
- depletion of soil mixture;
- poor lighting;
- no pruning was carried out during previous flowering periods.
If the reason for the lack of buds is that the container is too large, this means that the spathiphyllum is actively building up green mass. Such a specimen does not bloom, but throws out a lot of leaves. To induce flowering, it is enough to transplant the plant into a pot of a suitable volume. For other points, adequate measures are taken - a complete replacement of the soil is carried out, a place with sufficient lighting is found for the spathiphyllum.
Lack of flowering is especially typical for young plants. In such cases, spraying with a growth stimulant - gibberellic acid (GA3) with a concentration of 250 ppm helps. It should be taken into account that the size of the flower on specimens treated with GA3 is usually smaller than on plants that bloom naturally.
The leaves are turning yellow
The probable cause of yellowing of the lower leaves, sometimes accompanied by slight wilting and the appearance of elliptical dark brown spots, is Cylindrocladium spathiphylli. Control of this disease should be based primarily on the use of pathogen-free plants grown from tissue cultures or from seeds.
Using sterilized potting media and growing plants on clean, sanitized raised platforms is also important to reduce the risk of root rot developing and spreading. Chemical treatments are not completely effective.
The leaves are turning black
The appearance of black or dark brown spots on leaf blades most often indicates excessive watering over a long period of time. This problem usually occurs in cold weather, when the plant's moisture needs decrease. Reduce the frequency of watering to improve soil aeration. You can use a soil medium with a higher percentage of pore space.
If the leaves look burnt at the edges, and the tips of the leaves are necrotic, this is explained by excessive light or high temperature. Necessary measures - you should reduce the lighting, lower the temperature in the room where the spathiphyllum is located.
The tips of the leaves are drying out
Drying of the tips of the leaf blades signals that the spathiphyllum lacks moisture. Timely and sufficient watering, spraying with water, periodic warm showers will help the plant restore a healthy appearance.
The leaves have dropped after transplanting
Even a correct and timely transplant is stressful for "women's happiness". The plant withers, drops its leaves due to a sharp change in its usual conditions. The consequences of changing the soil are especially acute during the first two weeks. It is recommended to provide the flower with greenhouse conditions during this time. For this, if possible, build a mini-greenhouse or cover the plant with polyethylene film. It is necessary to monitor the temperature regime (23-25 °C) and the humidity level (50-70%) in the greenhouse.
The leaves are curling
Spathiphyllum tolerates short-term temperature drops to 13 °C quite well. But in this case, watering should be rare to avoid freezing of the root system. If the room temperature is constantly low without excessive watering, the flower's leaves curl. With this symptom, you need to increase the room temperature.
What plants are similar to spathiphyllum?
Besides anthurium, there are other plants that are similar in appearance to “women’s happiness”.
The inflorescence of Aglaonema moderate is a spadix surrounded by a pale green cover. But the leaves of Aglaonema do not form basal rosettes, but grow on a powerful stem. On the surface of the leaf blades of the plant, arcuate veins are clearly visible.
The decorative-leaved exotic alocasia is similar to spathiphyllum with its oval-pointed leaf shape. During the flowering period, the differences from spathiphyllum are clearly visible - small inflorescences of a pale pink hue.
All these plants, like spathiphyllum, are popular objects of home gardening.
Reviews and expert advice
Recommendations and opinions are shared by those who grow spathiphyllums at home.
Frequently asked questions
For those who are just planning to start growing “women’s happiness”, it will be useful to learn about some of the nuances of keeping the plant.
Despite the fact that these plants are close relatives and belong to the same family, they cannot be planted together in the same container. Spathiphyllum and anthurium have different needs for lighting and hydration. In addition, the "male happiness" is more capricious than the "female" and is more susceptible to pest damage.
Unlike true lilies, the above-ground parts of the Peace Lily do not contain substances that are extremely toxic to cats and cause acute renal failure. However, if there are four-legged animals in the house in addition to green pets, their owners should know that all parts of the spathiphyllum contain calcium oxalate in the form of raphides - needle-shaped crystals connected in bundles. Since they do not dissolve in liquid, when the plant comes into contact with the skin, mucous membranes, or gets inside, calcium oxalate causes an intense inflammatory reaction, irritation, swelling of the respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Spathiphyllum can be dangerous for dogs and cats who have a habit of eating houseplants. It is better to prevent an undesirable situation by placing the flower pot in a place inaccessible to animals.
The useful qualities of spathiphyllum are not limited to its decorative value and phytoncidal properties. The plant is able to absorb and neutralize acetone vapors emitted by household chemicals in the apartment, facing materials - varnishes, paints, cosmetics, furniture coverings. In addition to the fact that spathiphyllum suppresses the effects of harmful substances, the flower's life process itself helps absorb carbon dioxide and saturate the air with ozone. Five plants are enough to increase the content of oxygen ions in the air of the house by tens of times, positively affecting the well-being and physical activity of a person.
Feng Shui teachings recommend spathiphyllum as one of the best indoor plants capable of activating the positive energy of the home, harmonizing the atmosphere of the house.
However, the flower can be poisonous for small children, people with weakened immune systems and those prone to allergic reactions:
Accidentally eaten parts of the plant cause inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus, and gastrointestinal disorders;
Individual intolerance to pollen from the male part of the inflorescence provokes asthmatic phenomena, allergic dermatitis, rhinitis, conjunctivitis.
When choosing a place to place a flower, you need to find the best option, equally comfortable for both the plant and the person. When pruning spathiphyllum during the flowering period, it is necessary to take preventive measures - work in protective gloves, a mask and wash your hands thoroughly after contact with the plant.
During the flowering period, replanting is highly undesirable, but still possible. Such a step is taken in case of extreme necessity: with obvious signs of soil depletion or pest infestation. The way out of the situation is such a method of replanting, when the plant is transferred to another container without removing the earthen lump from the roots. This method allows you to maintain a minimum balance of nutrients, so necessary for the plant during flowering.