Spathiphyllum petite

Scientific name: Spathiphyllum petite

Family: Araceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 20 - 30 cm (7.87 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

Reproduction of the plant: Cuttings

Origin (in the wild): South America

How fast these plants grow: Slow

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Demands on lighting: Medium

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Background

Family

Araceae

Common Name

Petite Peace Lily

Propagation

Spathiphyllum petite can be propagated through cuttings or by allowing the plant to produce seeds. To propagate via cuttings, carefully remove side shoots or sections from the mother plant, ensuring to take off the lower two pairs of leaves to expose a bare stem. The stem should be placed gently into the substrate or a potting medium, taking care not to damage it. Over several weeks, roots will develop, and new plants will grow. If propagating by seeds, the compost must be kept consistently moist to encourage successful germination. Since Spathiphyllum petite is a slow-growing species, propagation requires patience, but the result is a resilient and visually appealing plant.

Difficulty

Medium. Spathiphyllum petite adapts well to a variety of water conditions, but it is not a fully aquatic species. It thrives in environments where its roots are submerged, but the leaves remain above water, making it more suitable for paludariums, ripariums, or shallow aquariums rather than fully submerged conditions.

Short Description

Commonly known as Petite Peace Lily, Spathiphyllum petite is a compact, slow-growing plant that originates from the tropical regions of South America. While it is popular as a houseplant, it is also frequently used in terrariums and paludariums due to its tolerance for partial submersion. In aquarium settings, only the roots should be submerged while the leaves remain above water, as full submersion can lead to rot. Reaching a maximum height of 30 cm (11.81 inches), this plant thrives in medium lighting and adds a touch of lush greenery to any setup.

Maintenance and Care

Spathiphyllum petite requires moderate care due to its sensitivity to full submersion. It thrives in humid environments where its roots can be submerged, but the leaves should stay above the water. Regularly removing dead leaves and flowers is necessary to keep the plant healthy, especially in aquariums where decaying matter can affect water quality. It prefers a pH range of 6 to 7.2, water hardness between 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29 ppm), and temperatures between 22 - 28°C (71.6 - 82.4°F).

Compatibility

Compatible with most peaceful aquarium species, Spathiphyllum petite serves as a decorative plant in terrariums, paludariums, or shallow tanks. While it doesn’t offer much shelter for fish, it adds a natural, lush appearance to any tank. Since it is not fully aquatic, care must be taken to ensure the water level remains below the base of the plant’s leaves to prevent rotting.

Submersion and Aquascaping

Spathiphyllum petite is not a true aquatic plant, and full submersion will lead to its decline. It is best used in aquascaping where the roots are submerged, but the leaves remain above the waterline. This makes it an excellent choice for paludariums or shallow tanks, where it provides a vibrant, green accent. Its compact size and slow growth make it ideal for smaller setups, offering a low-maintenance yet elegant addition for aquarists and terrarium enthusiasts alike.