- Good looks combined with practical use
- The single leaf is at home in tropical rain forests
- The varieties of the single-leaf and its relatives
The single leaf, correct Spathiphyllum, came to Europe towards the end of the 19th century. At first, the undemanding plant from overseas could only be admired in the tropical houses of the botanical gardens, but it became established as a houseplant in the second half of the 20th century. Today, the arum plant is one of the most popular ornamental plants for the living room at home.
The single leaf is a popular, undemanding houseplant
Good looks combined with practical use
Spathiphyllum has intense green, usually very large and shiny leaves. The actual flowers consist only of a bulb - typical for the aroid family - which is surrounded by a white, cream-colored or greenish bract. The size and circumference of the single leaf can vary greatly depending on the variety. Almost all bracts have white bracts, but other colors (except cream and green) are usually tinted. However, Spathiphyllum is not only cultivated as a houseplant because of its decorative appearance, the plant is also one of the plants that improve the indoor air significantly by absorbing carbon dioxide and other toxins.
The single leaf is at home in tropical rain forests
The single leaf is at home in the tropical and always humid rainforests of South America, especially Venezuela and Colombia. Here, Spathiphyllum thrives in the moist and warm shade of the imposing jungle giants, which is why the plant does not tolerate direct sunlight in your living room. Instead, the broadsheet prefers a light shade-i.e. H. the location should be bright but not directly sunny. High humidity is also an advantage, which is why Spathiphyllum feels particularly at home in the bathroom - as long as it is a bathroom with daylight.
The varieties of the single-leaf and its relatives
There are three different types of single leaf, but they are very similar in appearance and needs. Most of the around 50 different varieties derive from Spathiphyllum wallisii in particular, which, however, differ primarily in their size and width as well as in the size of their leaves and flowers. The bract of Spathiphyllum wallisii, for example, turns green very quickly, while the pure white bracts of Spathiphyllum floribundum can become particularly large. The single leaf is closely related to the anthurium (flamingo flower), the calla lily (zantedeschia), the dieffenbachia and the zamioculcas (lucky feather).
tips
Like all arum plants, the single leaf is slightly poisonous.