When it comes to choosing the perfect houseplant, two popular options are the Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) and the Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema). Both plants are celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and air-purifying properties, but they have distinct characteristics that may influence your decision. In this blog post, we will compare Peace Lily and Chinese Evergreen in terms of care requirements, appearance, benefits, and common issues, helping you make an informed choice for your home.

Overview of Peace Lily and Chinese Evergreen

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The Peace Lily is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and stunning white blooms. It thrives in low to moderate light and is often praised for its air-purifying capabilities, removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Chinese Evergreen features striking variegated leaves that can range from green to silver, red, or pink, depending on the variety. This plant is highly adaptable, making it a favorite for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts. Like the Peace Lily, it also has air-purifying qualities.

Care Requirements

Light

• Peace Lily: Prefers low to medium, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it's best to place it in a shaded area.

• Chinese Evergreen: Thrives in low to bright, indirect light, but some varieties can tolerate low light better than others. It can adapt to various lighting conditions.

Watering

• Peace Lily: Requires regular watering. It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

• Chinese Evergreen: Prefers to dry out between waterings. Water when the top couple of inches of soil feel dry, and be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity

• Peace Lily: Enjoys higher humidity levels, making it an ideal choice for bathrooms or kitchens. Regular misting can help maintain humidity.

• Chinese Evergreen: Tolerates a range of humidity levels, making it versatile for various indoor environments. However, it appreciates moderate humidity.

Temperature

• Peace Lily: Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations.

• Chinese Evergreen: Prefers similar temperatures but can tolerate slightly cooler conditions. Aim for a range of 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).

Appearance

Peace Lily

• Foliage: Dark green, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long.

• Flowers: White spathes (bracts) that resemble flowers, typically blooming in late spring to early summer.

Chinese Evergreen

• Foliage: Variegated leaves with shades of green, silver, and sometimes red or pink. Leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and have a unique texture.

• Flowers: Rarely flowers indoors, but if it does, the blooms are similar to those of the Peace Lily.

Benefits

Peace Lily

• Air Purification: Effective at removing common indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Elegant blooms add a touch of sophistication to any space.

Chinese Evergreen

• Air Purification: Also removes toxins from the air, improving indoor air quality.

• Low Maintenance: Highly adaptable and forgiving, making it ideal for beginners.

Common Issues

Peace Lily

• Yellowing Leaves: Often due to overwatering or underwatering. Regularly check soil moisture.

• Pests: Susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Regularly inspect leaves and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.

Chinese Evergreen

• Leaf Discoloration: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, while browning tips can suggest underwatering or low humidity.

• Pests: Can attract pests like aphids and spider mites, though it is generally more resistant than the Peace Lily.

Conclusion

Both Peace Lily and Chinese Evergreen are excellent choices for indoor plants, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic appeal. If you prefer a plant with stunning blooms and don't mind a bit of humidity, the Peace Lily may be for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant with striking foliage that adapts well to varying conditions, the Chinese Evergreen could be your best bet.