Learn All About Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) with our Guide
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) is part of the Araceae family and is native to the New World Tropics of Mexico and the West Indies south to Argentina. It gets its common name from the effects of consuming the stem, leaving the victim with mouth swelling and unable to speak. They come in a variety of different shades of green, yellow and cream and their variegation makes for an interesting addition to any home.
Light |
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) prefers lower light area in the growing season (March-September) and a brighter area in Winter. |
Watering |
Within the growing season (March-September), water when the top 2-3cm of soil are dry, usually once every 10-14 days. Reduce watering in the Winter months (December-February). |
Humidity |
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) prefer a humid environment, therefore you should mist it regularly. |
Temperature |
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) are best kept in temperatures between 16-24c and away from draughts or dry air. |
Fertilizer |
Feed your Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) once a month during the growing season (March-September). |
Toxicity |
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) are poisonous to animals and people. It is best kept well away from pets and small children. |
Additional Care Information |
Wipe the leaves once a month to improve photosynthesis and remove dust and debris. This will also help identify if your Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) has mealybugs as they are prone to this pest. |
Troubleshooting |
Drooping leaves indicate the room may be too draughty or cold for your Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane). Brown leaf tips is a sign underwatering or from cold dry air. Water more regularly and mist your Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) to increase humidity. Leaves turning pale would indicate your Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) is receiving too much sunlight, simply move it to an area with less direct light. |
The information above is written by Plantila and should be used as a guide only. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you need any additional advice. If you have purchased a plant at Plantila that's not doing so well please send us a picture via WhatsApp to 028 42 798478 and we will try to help.