Peace lilies (spathiphyllum) are such a popular houseplant that many people wonder if they can do what a few intrepid fishkeepers have done: Grow them in an aquarium. Do they live underwater, do well in fish tanks, or pose any threats? In this guide, we delve into how to grow peace lilies in water with fish, whether peace lilies can grow submerged and top tips for success – ideal if you’re an aquarist who loves greenery as well.

Can Peace Lily Grow Underwater?

No, peace lilies cannot grow fully underwater—submerged leaves rot, but roots can thrive in water.

Peace lilies aren’t true aquatic plants:

• Leaves: Submerging foliage leads to rot within weeks—needs air exposure.
• Roots: Can grow submerged, absorbing nutrients from water.
• Adaptation: Best as emersed plants—roots in water, leaves above.

They’re not suited for full submersion like true aquarium plants (e.g., Java fern)—partial water growth is their limit.

Can You Put Peace Lilies in an Aquarium?

Yes, you can put peace lilies in an aquarium with roots submerged and leaves above water.

Setup basics:

• Position: Roots in water, leaves out—use a hanger or tray to suspend the plant.
• Benefits: Roots filter nitrates, aiding water quality.
• Light: Low to moderate—near a north/east window or under aquarium lights.

It’s a stylish, functional addition—think aquaponics, not full aquatic growth.

Aspect	Requirement	Benefit
Roots	Submerged in water	Nutrient uptake
Leaves	Above waterline	Prevents rot
Support	Hanger/tray	Stable positioning

Can You Put Peace Lilies in a Fish Tank?

Yes, peace lilies can go in a fish tank—roots submerged, leaves above—enhancing the tank’s ecosystem.

Fish tank specifics:

• Compatibility: Works with small fish like bettas or guppies—roots offer shade and hiding spots.
• Size: Wide-top tanks (e.g., 10 gallons) suit small to medium plants.
• Water: Distilled or dechlorinated—tap water may harm sensitive roots.

They coexist well with fish—roots in, leaves out is the trick.

Can a Peace Lily Survive in Water?

Yes, a peace lily can survive in water for months to a year with roots submerged—longer with care.

Water survival:

• Duration: Up to 1 year—yellowing signals decline; repot in soil to extend life.
• Conditions: Clean water, changed weekly—roots need oxygen.
• Growth: Slower than soil—new leaves possible if nutrients are added.

It’s a viable option—think of it as hydroponic lite, not permanent.

Factor	Detail	Duration Impact
Water Change	Weekly	Sustains health
Nutrients	Diluted fertilizer	Extends life
Yellowing	Sign to repot	Limits water phase

Peace Lily in Aquarium Dangerous?

Peace lilies aren’t dangerous in aquariums for fish—mildly toxic to mammals, not proven harmful to aquatic life.

Safety check:

• Toxicity: Calcium oxalate crystals in leaves—toxic to cats/dogs if eaten, no fish poisoning reported.
• Fish Risk: Herbivorous fish (e.g., goldfish) might nibble roots—minimal harm.
• Water Quality: Roots improve it—absorb ammonia, nitrates.

Safe for fish tanks—keep leaves out, and it’s worry-free.

Insight: Toxicity Myth

• No evidence shows fish die from peace lily roots—mammal toxicity doesn’t translate underwater.

Growing Peace Lily in Water with Fish Tips

Grow peace lilies with fish by suspending roots in water, using clean water, and monitoring fish behavior.

Top tips:

• Setup: Use a plastic tray or wire frame—cut a hole for roots, fit snugly on tank rim.
• Water: Change 25% weekly—distilled or dechlorinated; avoid flake food to prevent cloudiness.
• Fish: Pair with peaceful species (e.g., bettas)—roots provide shelter.
• Light: Low to moderate—avoid direct sun to curb algae.
• Fertilizer: Optional—diluted hydroponic solution monthly; fish waste often suffices.
• Maintenance: Trim dead roots/leaves—keeps tank clean.

It’s a mini ecosystem—fish fertilize, plants filter.

Tip	Action	Result
Root Suspension	Tray or frame	Leaves stay dry
Water Change	25% weekly	Clear, healthy tank
Fish Choice	Betta, guppies	Harmony, shelter
Light	Indirect	Bloom support