Peace Lily

Spathiphyllum wallisii

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Liliopsida›Alismatales›Araceae

📍 Rainforests of Central & South America

The peace lily is a popular emersed choice for betta tanks and desktop aquariums, sometimes sold in vase 'betta kits.' With its roots in the water and foliage above, it draws down nitrate and can even produce its signature white flower. Only the roots belong underwater — submerging the crown or leaves will rot the plant. Its sap is mildly toxic if eaten, so keep foliage away from curious pets outside the tank.

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Compatible Livestock

Betta

The signature 'peace-lily betta vase' plant — roots export nitrate while the leaves stay above water.

excellent

Honey Gourami

Gentle labyrinth fish suited to the calm, planted tanks peace lily complements.

good

Nerite Snail

Keeps algae down in the low-tech tanks this plant fits.

excellent

Common Diseases

Root / crown rot

Symptoms

Mushy, blackened, or foul-smelling roots or lower stem; drooping, yellowing foliage — almost always from submerging the leaves or crown.

Treatment

Keep only the roots underwater and the foliage in the air. Trim away rotted tissue with clean scissors, improve surface circulation/oxygen, and let the plant re-establish.

Yellowing leaves

Symptoms

Pale or yellowing foliage, slow or leggy growth.

Treatment

Give brighter indirect light and dose a little liquid plant fertilizer. In a lightly stocked tank the water may lack nutrients for vigorous emersed growth.

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Quick Facts

co2: Not required
light: Low to moderate indirect
placement: Emersed only — suspend the roots in the water with the leaves above the surface (hang-on-back filter, tank rim, or lid). Do not fully submerge; submerged foliage will rot.
substrate: None — roots grow directly in the water column
growth rate: Moderate