October means autumn, when we spend more time indoors while the days grow shorter. In this cozy setting, air quality matters as much as ambiance. The Spathiphyllum, Air So Pure plant of the Month for October, is the perfect green friend. While you sip tea on the sofa, the Spathiphyllum quietly works to refresh the air.
Elegance That Endures
Classic beauty with a modern edge. The Spathiphyllum, commonly known as 'peace lily', is instantly recognizable by its deep-green, glossy leaves and its white 'flowers'. In truth, those white forms often called flowers are in fact bracts; their look is unmistakably chic on this spoon plant. Its refined, arching habit makes it a natural fit for both contemporary interiors and traditional decor. As October’s light fades outside, this plant brings warmth, atmosphere, and a sense of calm to any room – living room, bedroom, or workspace.
A Proven Air-Purifier
What sets the Spathiphyllum apart is its demonstrated ability to purify the air. NASA research in the 1980s highlighted its ability to filter volatile organic compounds, including benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Since then, countless studies have reinforced these findings. Every Spathiphyllum in the Air So Pure line is rigorously tested by an independent research firm, ensuring you’re offering a plant that truly improves indoor air quality.
Styling Options
Versatility in every size. Small Spathiphyllums are perfect for cozy corners - think a bank of petite plants on a shelf, a coffee table, or a compact display in a bathroom. Larger specimens serve as eye-catching centers in living rooms, reception areas, or open-plan offices. The variety across sizes and forms invites creative groupings: a living green wall, a tiered arrangement on a console, or a curated mix-pot that blends texture, height, and air-purifying magic.
Care Tips for a Happy Spathiphyllum
- Place the plant in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Excessive direct sun can scorch the leaves, so steer clear of harsh afternoon rays. A lightly shaded corner or filtered light through a sheer curtain works beautifully.
- Keep the soil lightly moist. The Spathiphyllum thrives in conditions akin to its native swampy environments, so it tolerates 'wet feet' better than most. However, avoid waterlogging as a rule; allow the top inch to dry slightly before watering again. If the plant wilts, a drink usually brings it back within hours.
- Thrives with higher humidity and a steady warmth. Regular misting helps prevent tip burns and keeps foliage lush.
- In the active summer months, provide a monthly feeding with a balanced houseplant fertilizer to support growth and flowering.
- Trim away yellowing or brown leaves and spent flowers to promote new growth. Remove spent blooms at the base to focus energy on healthy tissue.
A note for homes with animals or young children. The Spathiphyllum is not toxic to look at - it can be hazardous if ingested. Leaves and flowers contain compounds that can irritate the mouth, throat, and stomach. If you have curious pets or small children, place the plant out of reach. It remains a stunning, beneficial addition to homes and workplaces when sited thoughtfully.
Four Respected Breeders, Four Strengths
The October plant of the month is grown with care by four distinguished partners from Air So Pure, each contributing their strengths:
- Bestplant: Since 1994, a specialist in large Spathiphyllum plants, with pot sizes ranging from 17 cm to 27 cm.
- Concorde Plants: Since 2023, a producer of several Spathiphyllum varieties in 13 cm pots.
- KP Holland: Focused on breeding, propagation, production, and sales of Spathiphyllum in compact sizes of 7, 9, 15, and 17 cm.
- Van der Voort Potplanten: Breeder and producer of Spathiphyllum in pot sizes 6.5, 9, 10.5, 12, 13, 17, and 23 cm.
A Spectrum of Sizes and Shapes
Thanks to the partners, the Spathiphy is available in various sizes, ranging from petite to imposing. In total, there are more than 40 Spathiphyllum species, and Air So Pure carries a wide range to fit every space. In total, Air So Pure assortment features 14 pot sizes and 16 varieties, so there’s a Spathiphyllum for every setting — from intimate shelves at 22 cm to dramatic floor-popping specimens up to 160 cm tall.
Staging and Store Presentation
There are many different options for showcasing Spathiphyllum. Here are some ideas:
- Small specimens: set on a shelf, kitchen island, or a decorative stool for a pop of quiet green among other Air So Pure varieties.
- Medium to tall specimens: dramatic floor plants or striking focal points in a mix-pot with other Air So Pure species to maximize scent, color, and air-cleaning vibes.
- Decorative pots and styling: pair with minimalist planters or textured ceramics to accentuate the shine of the leaves and the gleam of the white bracts.
- Retail displays: Highlight October’s air-purifying plant of the month with a 'green, clean, calm' vignette, featuring soft lighting, a gentle breeze, and a note about the air benefits.
Air So Pure – It’s All in the Name
Air So Pure is a unique growers’ collective that has turned ordinary houseplants into something extraordinary. It’s essentially a quality brand of air-purifying indoor plants cultivated by a network of passionate growers. This is a group of growers with plants that have scientifically proven beneficial health effects. Founded in 2007, the concept emerged when a handful of Dutch Spathiphyllum growers discovered that their plants could do more than look pretty – they could purify the air. Research showed the Spathiphyllum’s strong air-cleaning ability, which inspired these growers to join forces and launch the Air So Pure brand.
All images courtesy of Air So Pure.
