Text & photographs by Dr. Mahadeswara Swamy Scientist
Peace lilies, also known as ‘Snow flower’, ‘Spathe flower’ and ‘White anthurium’, are popular house plants. They produce charming perky snow-white blooms on long stalks. The floral make-up looks like an expanded hood of a cobra, ready to strike! They provide tropical look with exotic touch and spread more grace than many a more sumptuous blooms. That is why they are peace lilies! In addition, they combat air pollution indoors as they are capable of removing toxic gaseous chemicals from air. Around 35 species of genus Spathiphyllum belonging to the family Aeraceae, are collectively called peace lilies. The name is derived from Greek word ‘Spath’ meaning ‘Bract or Sheath ’ and ‘Phyllum’ referring to ‘Leaf’. They are native to Central and South America, Indonesia and Philippines.
