Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia seguine

Also called Dumb Cane — a bold tropical from the Americas with large cream-splashed green leaves on thick cane-like stems. The common name refers to the calcium oxalate crystals that can cause temporary mouth numbness and speech difficulty if chewed — highly toxic to curious pets and toddlers. Fast-growing indoors and among the most forgiving of lower-light spots.

Quick Facts

Distribution

Indoor (native to Caribbean & Central/South America)

Light

Bright indirect light; tolerates medium light

Bloom Time

Rare indoors

Soil

Rich, well-draining peat-based mix

Water

When top 2–5 cm of soil is dry; likes humidity

Toxic to PetsSevere calcium oxalate toxicity — causes oral pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing in cats, dogs & humans

Growing & Cultivation

Propagation

Stem cuttings (4–15 cm sections of cane laid horizontally or stood upright in moist soil), air-layering, or division of crowded clumps