Ever since I brought home my first peace lily, I’ve been that person who geeks out over houseplants.
These plants have followed me from apartment to apartment, and I honestly can’t get enough of them.
In case you need convincing, here are 7 interesting (and totally heartfelt) reasons why I think everyone should keep a peace lily at home.
They’re Like a Natural Air-Purifier
It’s not a myth, peace lilies can actually help clean your indoor air. NASA research (yes, NASA!) lists peace lilies among the top houseplants for removing nasty toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.
Basically, these green pals act like little vacuums, sucking up pollutants through their leaves.
In my apartment, where there is a lot of pollution from cars outside, it’s comforting to know I’ve got a plant quietly helping out.
Those Lush Green Leaves and White “Flags” Are Gorgeous
Peace lilies have flamboyant white blooms (technically spathes) that look like elegant flags waving in a breeze.
They really add a pop of calm, natural beauty to any room. When mine flowers, it completely changes the look of the entire living room.
Plus, scientists say plants in general boost our mood. I totally buy that. Every time I walk into my apartment now, I feel a little brighter seeing those shiny green leaves and white spathes.
Even when I’m working from home at my desk (most of the days), the peace lily is right there, making the corner feel calm and alive. It’s like having a mini zen garden
Seriously Easy to Care For
If you’re as notorious as I am for forgetting to water things (I once killed a cactus, RIP), peace lilies are forgiving little critters.
I swear they practically train themselves to be low-maintenance.
They’re super resilient, and different gardening guides even call them the “ideal plants for newbies” because they’re tough and forgiving.
Here’s the deal: they like consistent, slightly moist soil, and they’ll dramatically let you know when it’s been too long since their last drink (their leaves droop until you water them).
And then, within a few hours of watering, they perk right back up like nothing happened.
On the flip side, peace lilies definitely prefer not to sit in waterlogged soil. But mostly, they are quite easy plants, no constant attention needed, just a sip of water now and then.
They Thrive in Low Light (Great for Apartments or Offices)
Another thing that I love about them is that peace lilies are sun-shy survivors. They actually prefer bright, indirect light, and can tolerate pretty low-light conditions.
In fact, mine was for years near a north-facing corner with only a few hours of filtered sun each day, and it just kept growing.
They can adapt to low light so well that they’re often recommended for offices or apartments that don’t see much sun.
PRO GARDENER: In low light, they still occasionally bloom. My little lily actually put out a fresh white bloom last fall, even though it was several feet from the window.
They Love Humidity
Since peace lilies come from tropical rainforests, they really love humidity. That’s why you’ll often find them listed as perfect for steamy bathrooms or kitchens.
And yes, they can actually raise the humidity around them as well. Plants, in general, release moisture into the air through their leaves (a process called transpiration), and having a few of them around can make dry indoor air feel nicer.
On cold winters or in arid climates, this really helps. It’s like having a tiny humidifier that only costs water and neglect.
Plus, more humid air can be good for your sinuses and skin, so there’s that extra health bonus.
And because of that rainforest origin, peace lilies appreciate the occasional misting or a bunch of plant friends nearby. They help each other hold moisture, too.
For example, you can place it next to poinsettias or snake plants.
They Make You (and Guests) Feel Good
Here’s a cheesy-but-true thing: having plants around really makes a room feel more alive and relaxing.
Some studies even showed that plants help people feel more focused.
It sounds silly, but I’m convinced that talking to them (yes, I do) and admiring their blooms is a serotonin boost. One time I was totally bummed out and just sat on the couch staring at the white flower.
Somehow it cheered me up, maybe because peace lilies are often given as symbols of comfort and hope (they’re literally called “peace” lilies).
In addition, they make great housewarming or sympathy gifts.
They’re Versatile Décor
Peace lilies come in all shapes and sizes these days, so they fit wherever you want a touch of green.
There are tiny tabletop varieties (cute on a shelf or desk) and giant ones that grow human-tall.
I’ve seen peace lilies in wicker baskets, sleek pots, and even ceramic planters. They look great anywhere.
I love swapping out pots too, and peace lilies handle that like champs. It’s a plant that always seems to say, “Yep, I belong here,” no matter where you put it.
Plus, because they’re so well-liked, you can find them in plant shops year-round.
Of course, don’t forget that like all indoor plants, they need a little care. I recommend taking a look at the specific article with 10 specific tips to keep your undoor plants healthy.