Sensation Peace Lily

Basic Information

Common Name: Sensation Peace Lily

Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’

Native Habitat: Tropical rainforests of Central and South America.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’, often referred to as the Sensation Peace Lily, is a cultivar of the Spathiphyllum genus, renowned for its impressive size and striking foliage. While the precise details of its origin are not widely documented in the same manner as the original species, the cultivation and popularity of this specific cultivar can be traced to advancements in horticultural practices, likely during the late 20th or early 21st century.

The original Spathiphyllum plants were first introduced to Europe in the 19th century, but the development of cultivars like ‘Sensation’ came about through selective breeding. The primary aim of cultivators was to enhance the desirable traits of the Peace Lily, such as the size, the richness of the foliage, and the aesthetic appeal of the blooms. ‘Sensation’ is characterized by its particularly large, deep-green leaves and its ability to thrive in a variety of indoor environments. This robust nature made it a popular choice for interior designers and home gardeners alike.

The geographical origins of the parent species, Spathiphyllum, lie within the tropical rainforests of the Americas, particularly in regions with high humidity and consistent temperatures. These natural habitats provide the perfect conditions for the Peace Lily to flourish, allowing it to grow lush, dense foliage and produce its characteristic white spathes. The introduction of this cultivar, though not a discovery in the same sense as a newly found species, expanded the range of environments where these impressive plants could be enjoyed.

The individuals and companies involved in the development of ‘Sensation’ are largely undocumented. The common horticultural practice involves commercial nurseries and plant breeders focused on creating superior varieties. In the case of cultivars such as ‘Sensation’, the focus is often on optimizing the plants for indoor growth. These cultivars aim for improved disease resistance, tolerance for lower light conditions, and enhanced visual qualities to appeal to a wider market.

The ‘Sensation’ Peace Lily quickly gained popularity due to its impressive stature. The large leaves are visually striking, making them perfect for adding an elegant touch to any space. The fact that they are relatively easy to care for contributed to its widespread adoption among both experienced and beginner plant enthusiasts. Its ability to purify indoor air, an attribute shared by the entire Spathiphyllum genus, also amplified its appeal. Its popularity continues to this day.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

The Sensation Peace Lily exhibits several adaptations that allow it to thrive in its native rainforest habitat. Its large, broad leaves are adept at capturing the limited sunlight that penetrates the dense canopy. The plant also efficiently absorbs water and nutrients from the damp forest floor and the air, allowing it to survive in the humid conditions. Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’ shares the same adaptations to its habitat as its parent species. These plants are well-adapted to shady environments. They possess the ability to tolerate low light conditions, making them ideal for understory growth, which is essential for the survival of their native habitat. Furthermore, the plant’s ability to communicate its need for water through drooping leaves is a notable adaptation. This drooping indicates the need for water, serving as an essential survival mechanism. The white "flowers" are not actually petals, but modified leaves called spathes that attract pollinators, which is another critical adaptation for reproduction.

Propagation Methods

The Sensation Peace Lily, like other Spathiphyllum varieties, can be readily propagated through several methods. The most common and easiest method is division. This involves carefully separating the plant into smaller clumps, making sure that each division has healthy roots and leaves. This is best done during repotting, typically in the spring. Another effective method is by removing the offsets or "pups" that sometimes develop at the base of the parent plant. These can be carefully separated and planted in their own pots. In addition, Spathiphyllum can be propagated from stem cuttings in water or soil. Place the cutting in water or well-draining soil to grow new roots. The key is to use clean tools and ensure that each division or cutting has enough root structure to support healthy growth.

Toxicology

The Sensation Peace Lily contains calcium oxalate crystals throughout its tissues. If any part of the plant is ingested by humans or pets, it can cause mild to moderate symptoms. These symptoms commonly include oral irritation, burning or swelling of the mouth, lips, and tongue. Excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting can also occur. In severe cases, swelling of the throat might lead to respiratory difficulties, though this is rare. It’s essential to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and to seek veterinary or medical attention if ingestion is suspected.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Aphids

Diseases:

• Root rot (caused by overwatering)
• Leaf spot (caused by fungal infections)
• Fusarium wilt

Other:

• Leaf yellowing and droopiness: Likely caused by underwatering, overwatering, or insufficient light.
• Browning tips: Often a result of dry air, lack of humidity, or mineral salt buildup in the soil.
• Lack of flowers: Often caused by insufficient light or lack of fertilizer.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While the Sensation Peace Lily is not considered extremely rare, the availability of specific sizes and the quality of the specimen can influence perceived rarity. Factors that can affect its perceived rarity may include the size of the plant (larger, more mature plants are often more desirable), the absence or presence of variegation (some Spathiphyllum cultivars have variegated leaves, which may command a higher price), and its overall health and appearance. Propagation and demand also determine how rare any plant can be in the market.

Value:

The market value of a Sensation Peace Lily depends on several factors. Size is a primary determinant; larger, more mature plants tend to be more valuable. The overall health and vibrancy of the plant significantly impact its value. The quality of the plant, including the size, foliage color, and the presence of healthy blooms (when in season), influence the price. Current collector trends also play a role. Plant trends shift over time, so popular varieties may increase in value. The reputation of the seller and the provenance of the plant can also impact value, as can the presence of unusual features.