Domino Peace Lily
Basic Information
Common Name: Domino Peace Lily
Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum ‘Domino’
Native Habitat: This cultivar, Spathiphyllum ‘Domino’, is a cultivated variety of the Peace Lily and does not have a specific natural habitat. The parent species, Spathiphyllum, originates from tropical rainforests of Central and South America and parts of Southeast Asia.
History / Discovery / Cultivator
The ‘Domino’ Peace Lily is a relatively recent cultivar, developed through selective breeding to showcase its striking variegated foliage. Unlike some plant species that have a rich history of discovery in the wild, cultivars like ‘Domino’ are the result of human intervention and horticultural advancements. This variety is prized for its dark green leaves splashed with irregular, creamy white markings, giving it a distinctive “domino” effect, hence the name.
The specific details regarding its exact origins and the individual responsible for its creation are often less documented than the wild species. Cultivars like ‘Domino’ are typically the result of breeding efforts undertaken by commercial nurseries or specialized plant breeders. These breeders aim to highlight specific desirable traits like variegation patterns, leaf size, and overall plant form.
The popularity of ‘Domino’ can be attributed to its aesthetic appeal, its ability to brighten indoor spaces, and its relatively easy care requirements, making it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. The variegation in ‘Domino’ is a mutation that affects the plant’s chlorophyll production. It’s crucial to note that while this variegation makes it visually appealing, it can affect the plant’s ability to photosynthesize effectively. This is why providing adequate light is essential for this cultivar to thrive and maintain its vibrant variegation.
The spread and popularization of ‘Domino’ are closely linked to the houseplant market, with nurseries and garden centers actively promoting its availability to customers. While the Peace Lily has a long history in cultivation, ‘Domino’ represents a modern addition to the family, appreciated for its striking appearance.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright Indirect | Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A north or east-facing window is ideal. |
| Water | Moderate | Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot. |
| Humidity | High | Prefers humidity above 50%. Mist regularly or use a pebble tray. |
| Temp. Range | 65-80°F (18-27°C) | Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes. |
| Soil Type | Well-Draining | Use a peat-based potting mix. |
| Fertilizer | Balanced, Monthly (Growing Season) | Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring/summer). |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic | Contains calcium oxalate crystals; can cause oral irritation if ingested. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
The Spathiphyllum genus, including the ‘Domino’ cultivar, has several interesting adaptations. The most notable is its ability to thrive in low-light conditions, a characteristic that makes it a popular houseplant. Its broad leaves are designed to capture available light efficiently, even in the shaded understory of its native rainforest habitat. Additionally, the Peace Lily is known for its ability to “tell” you when it’s thirsty, as the leaves will droop noticeably when water is needed. The plant’s flowers, which are actually modified leaves called spathes, also help attract pollinators in their natural environment. They have a unique way of purifying the air in the immediate vicinity which gives them their ‘Peace Lily’ common name, and makes them an ideal plant for inside the home.
Propagation Methods
‘Domino’ Peace Lilies are relatively easy to propagate. The most common method is division. During repotting, carefully separate the plant’s root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and leaves. Plant each section in a new pot with fresh potting mix. Division is usually done during the spring or summer growing season. You can also propagate by dividing the entire plant or taking stem cuttings in water with a well-developed root system and transplanting to soil.
Toxicology
The ‘Domino’ Peace Lily, like other Spathiphyllum species, contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested by humans or pets (especially cats and dogs), these crystals can cause irritation in the mouth and throat. Common symptoms include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and oral pain. It is generally considered mildly toxic, and symptoms are usually not life-threatening, but it’s best to keep the plant out of reach of pets and small children.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Root rot (due to overwatering)
- Leaf spot (often caused by fungal infection)
- Anthracnose
Other:
- Brown leaf tips: Often caused by low humidity or infrequent watering.
- Yellowing leaves: Can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light.
- Lack of flowers: Can be due to insufficient light or lack of fertilizer.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
While the parent species, the Peace Lily, is widely available, the ‘Domino’ cultivar can be considered less common than the plain green varieties. The variegation pattern is a desired trait, and the availability of well-variegated and healthy specimens may be limited by propagation success and the care required to maintain the variegation. Furthermore, availability fluctuates based on market trends and the production capacity of nurseries.
Value:
The value of a ‘Domino’ Peace Lily depends on several factors, including the size of the plant, the vibrancy and stability of the variegation (the more pronounced and stable the variegation, the higher the value), overall health, and the current market demand. Larger, more mature plants with striking patterns and a proven record of variegation will command higher prices. The quality of the variegation is key, as inconsistent or fading patterns diminish the plant’s appeal. Collector trends, such as the popularity of variegated plants at a given moment, also influence value.
