Dieffenbachia species & cultivars

Dieffenbachia, also known as Dumb Cane, is a popular ornamental houseplant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is a native of Central and South America, from Mexico to Argentina. The plant derives its common name, Dumb Cane, from the effect of the plant’s sap, which can cause temporary speechlessness when ingested.

Habitat and Popular Cultivars:

Dieffenbachia is a tropical plant that thrives in a humid and warm environment. In its natural habitat, it grows as an understory plant in the tropical rainforest, where it receives filtered sunlight. The plant can grow up to six feet tall in the wild, but it is usually much smaller in indoor cultivation.

Habit: Medium to large single-stemmed to clumping perennials producing bamboo-like stems up to 1.5 m tall indoors with either solid green or variously green, white or yellow variegated leaves and generally insignificant flowers.



Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 10ᐤ C may result in damage to leaves while temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants.



Light Exposure: Green leaved varieties can stand full shade but the variegated varieties need bright, indirect light but not exposed to direct sunlight which will burn the leaves.



Watering: Dieffenbachia likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season.



Humidity: The plant prefers high humidity levels, and it will benefit from occasional misting or placement in a pebble tray filled with water.

Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once every five weeks during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Plants are sensitive to over fertilisation and will begin to decline if fertilised too frequently.



Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing leaves as necessary. Dieffenbachia may need repotting every three or four years depending on size; repot in spring as new growth is starting.



Pest Control: Dieffenbachia is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Inspect the plant regularly for any signs of infestation and treat with an insecticide as soon as possible.

In conclusion, Dieffenbachia is an excellent choice for a houseplant, with its colorful and patterned leaves adding a touch of tropical beauty to any home. With proper care, this plant can thrive for many years, making it a great investment for any plant lover.