Plants That Look Like Peace Lily

Plants that look like peace lily include the anthurium, spathiphyllum’s close relatives, and certain caladium varieties with similar spathe shapes. If you love the clean, white blooms of a peace lily but want something a little different, you have plenty of options. Many people are surprised to learn that the peace lily isn’t a true lily at all, which opens up a world of look-alikes that share its elegant silhouette.

The key to finding a convincing doppelganger is understanding the flower structure. A peace lily’s iconic look comes from a white, leaf-like bract called a spathe that wraps around a central spike called a spadix. Any plant that mimics this shape will instantly remind you of your favorite houseplant. Below, we break down the best look-alikes, how to tell them apart, and which one might be right for your home.

This section covers the most common and visually similar plants to the peace lily. We will compare their leaf shape, flower color, and care needs so you can make an informed choice. Remember that while they share aesthetics, their growing requirements can differ significantly.

Anthurium: The Flamingo Flower

Anthuriums are probably the closest match to a peace lily in terms of flower structure. They feature the same spathe and spadix combo, but with a glossy, almost plastic-like finish. The most common variety has a bright red spathe, but you can also find pink, orange, purple, and even white cultivars.

Key Difference: Anthurium spathes are waxy and heart-shaped, while peace lilies have a more rounded, greenish-white spathe.
Leaf Shape: Anthurium leaves are dark green, leathery, and have a distinct sheen. They are also heart-shaped but much thicker than peace lily foliage.
Size: They tend to stay more compact than some peace lily varieties, though they can reach 2-3 feet tall.
Care: Anthuriums need brighter light than peace lilies to bloom. They also prefer consistently warm temperatures and high humidity.

If you want a plant that looks like a peace lily but with a pop of color, anthurium is your best bet. The care is similar, but they are a bit more demanding regarding light. You will need to provide a spot near an east-facing window to see those vibrant blooms.

Spathiphyllum Varieties: The True Relatives

It might sound obvious, but other varieties of spathiphyllum are the best plants that look like peace lily. The standard peace lily you see in stores is usually *Spathiphyllum wallisii*. However, there are dozens of other species and hybrids that offer different sizes and leaf textures while keeping the classic white flower.

Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’: This giant variety has huge, deeply veined leaves and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The flowers are also larger and more impressive.
Spathiphyllum ‘Domino’: This one has variegated leaves with white and green patches. The flowers look exactly like a standard peace lily, but the foliage adds extra visual interest.
Spathiphyllum ‘Clevelandii’: This variety has longer, narrower leaves and a more upright growth habit. Its spathe is also longer and more elegant.
Spathiphyllum ‘Mauna Loa’: A very common hybrid with large, dark green leaves and big, showy white blooms. It is often sold as a standard peace lily.

Choosing a different spathiphyllum cultivar is the easiest way to get a plant that looks like a peace lily but fits a specific space. You get the exact same care routine and flower shape, just with a different growth pattern. For example, the ‘Sensation’ variety is perfect for filling a dark corner, while ‘Domino’ adds a unique touch to a bright desk.

Caladium: The Foliage Look-Alike

While caladiums don’t have the same spathe flower, certain varieties produce a bloom that is strikingly similar. More importantly, their arrow-shaped leaves can mimic the lush, broad foliage of a peace lily. The white varieties, like ‘Candidum’ or ‘White Queen’, have almost translucent white leaves with green veins, which can be confused with a peace lily from a distance.

Key Difference: Caladiums are grown for their colorful leaves, not their flowers. The bloom is small and insignificant compared to the peace lily’s showy spathe.
Leaf Shape: The leaves are arrow-shaped or heart-shaped, similar to the peace lily but often more pointed.
Growth Habit: Caladiums grow from bulbs and are seasonal. They will die back in the winter, unlike peace lilies which are evergreen.
Care: They need high humidity and consistent moisture. They also prefer warmer temperatures and will go dormant if it gets too cool.

If you are looking for a plant that looks like peace lily in terms of foliage, caladiums are a great choice. However, they are not a permanent houseplant. You will need to dig up the bulbs and store them during the dormant season. This makes them a bit more work than a low-maintenance peace lily.

Other Spathe-Bearing Plants

There are a few other plants in the Araceae family that share the peace lily’s distinctive flower structure. These are less common but still worth considering if you want a unique look-alike.

Zantedeschia: The Calla Lily

Calla lilies have a very similar spathe and spadix, but the spathe is usually more trumpet-shaped and rolled. They also come in a wider range of colors, including yellow, pink, and deep purple. The leaves are arrow-shaped and can be speckled with white spots.

Key Difference: Calla lily spathes are more funnel-shaped and pointed, while peace lilies are flatter and more rounded.
Size: They can grow taller than peace lilies, with some reaching 3 feet.
Care: They prefer similar light conditions but need a period of rest after blooming. They are also more sensitive to overwatering.

Aglaonema: The Chinese Evergreen

Aglaonemas are not usually grown for their flowers, but they do produce a small, peace-lily-like bloom. The spathe is usually greenish-white and smaller than a peace lily’s. They are primarily grown for their stunning, variegated foliage.

Key Difference: The flowers are smaller and less showy. The leaves are also more elongated and pointed.
Leaf Color: Aglaonemas come in a huge range of colors, from silver and green to pink and red.
Care: They are incredibly easy to care for and tolerate low light better than most peace lilies.

These alternatives offer a different take on the peace lily aesthetic. If you are looking for a plant that looks like peace lily but with a more dramatic flower, the calla lily is a strong contender. If you want a plant with similar subtle blooms but more interesting leaves, the aglaonema is a solid pick.

How To Tell Them Apart

It can be tricky to tell these plants apart at a glance. Here is a simple guide to help you identify which plant you are looking at. Pay close attention to the texture and shape of the spathe, as this is the most reliable indicator.

Check the Spathe Texture: Peace lilies have a matte, slightly textured spathe. Anthuriums have a shiny, waxy spathe that reflects light.
Look at the Spathe Shape: Peace lily spathes are oval and slightly cupped. Calla lily spathes are tightly rolled and trumpet-shaped.
Examine the Leaves: Peace lily leaves are thin, flexible, and have a prominent central vein. Anthurium leaves are thick, leathery, and very stiff.
Check the Growth Habit: Peace lilies grow in clumps from a central crown. Caladiums grow from bulbs and may have gaps in the foliage.
Look for Color: If the spathe is red, pink, or orange, it is an anthurium. Peace lilies are almost exclusively white or greenish-white.

Once you know what to look for, identifying these plants becomes easy. The texture of the spathe is the quickest way to tell an anthurium from a peace lily. The shape of the spathe will help you distinguish a calla lily from the rest.

Which Look-Alike Is Right For You?

Choosing the right plant depends on your space and your care preferences. Here is a quick breakdown to help you decide. Consider your lighting situation first, as this is often the deciding factor.

For Low Light: Stick with a true spathiphyllum variety. They are the most tolerant of dim conditions and will still bloom.
For Bright, Indirect Light: An anthurium will reward you with constant, colorful blooms. They need more light to thrive.
For Foliage Interest: Choose a variegated spathiphyllum like ‘Domino’ or a caladium. They offer the peace lily look with extra visual appeal.
For a Dramatic Statement: Go with a giant spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’ or a tall calla lily. They will fill a large space with their presence.
For Easy Care: Aglaonemas are the most forgiving. They tolerate neglect and low light better than any other plant on this list.

Think about what you value most. If you want a low-maintenance plant that looks exactly like a peace lily, stick with the spathiphyllum genus. If you are willing to put in a little extra work for more color, go with an anthurium.

Care Tips For Peace Lily Look-Alikes

While care varies slightly, most of these plants share similar needs. They all come from tropical regions and prefer warm, humid conditions. Here are some general tips to keep your look-alike healthy.

Light Requirements

Most of these plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight will scorch their leaves. A north or east-facing window is ideal. If the leaves start to turn yellow, they are getting too much light. If they stop blooming, they need more light.

Watering Needs

These plants like to be kept consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering is a common issue that leads to root rot. Peace lilies are dramatic and will droop when thirsty, which is a helpful indicator.

Humidity And Temperature

They all appreciate higher humidity. You can increase humidity by placing a humidifier nearby or setting the pot on a tray of pebbles and water. Keep them away from cold drafts and heating vents. They prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C).

Fertilizing

Feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize in the winter when growth slows down. Over-fertilizing can cause brown leaf tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about plants that resemble peace lilies. These answers should help clarify any remaining doubts you might have.

What is the closest plant to a peace lily?

The anthurium is the closest visual match due to its identical spathe and spadix structure. However, other spathiphyllum varieties are the closest in terms of care and growth habit. They are essentially the same plant with different leaf shapes or sizes.

Is a calla lily the same as a peace lily?

No, they are different plants, though they are in the same family. Calla lilies have a more tubular, trumpet-shaped flower, while peace lilies have a flatter, more open spathe. Calla lilies also grow from bulbs and have a dormant period, unlike peace lilies.

Why does my peace lily look like it has a different plant growing in it?

This is likely a different variety of spathiphyllum that was planted together in the same pot. Many growers combine different cultivars to create a fuller look. You can separate them if you prefer, or leave them to grow together.

Are anthuriums harder to care for than peace lilies?

Yes, anthuriums are generally considered slightly harder to care for. They require more consistent warmth, higher humidity, and brighter light to bloom. Peace lilies are more forgiving and can tolerate lower light and occasional neglect.

Can I grow these look-alikes outdoors?

Yes, you can grow them outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. They need a shady spot with protection from direct sun and wind. In cooler climates, they must be grown as houseplants or brought indoors during the winter months.

In summary, finding a plant that looks like a peace lily is easy once you know what to look for. Whether you choose an anthurium for its color, a caladium for its foliage, or another spathiphyllum for its size, you can enjoy the same elegant aesthetic. Just match the plant to your home’s lighting and your personal care style, and you will have a beautiful, thriving look-alike in no time. Remember to check the spathe texture and shape to confirm your identification, and you will never mix them up again. These plants are all rewarding to grow and will bring a touch of the tropics into your living space.