Dieffenbachia

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Short Description:

Dieffenbachia Features

Dieffenbachia is commonly named “dumb cane”; if you chew the leaves or stems

by accident, you might get a sore mouth and be unable to speak.

The beautiful perennial plant has a diverse variety. With various types, it falls in

the Araceae family.

The ornamental houseplant features low maintenance and easy growth. Its

pointed, shiny leaves are colored in shades of green, with white and cream flecks.

The ovate-shaped leaves are big and thick. Dieffenbachia has tall, straight stems

and its seasonal white flowers are rarely visible.

Dieffenbachia’s Origin

The plant has its origin in the tropical areas of the Caribbean and South America.

Lighting

The plant doesn’t need too much light, so you can comfortably put it in different

places in a house.

Its leaves darken, burn and become dull due to excessive sunlight. Filtered and

indirect light is recommended. Insufficient light, too, causes damages like

discoloration and loss of chlorophyll.

If kept outdoors, the plant can flourish in full and bright sunlight; but protect it

from strong winds and hot summer sun.

Watering

Make sure to water it well. You can wait for next watering till the plant’s soil

volume is 50% to 75% dry. However, there is no accurate time to set watering

schedule.

Watering depends on factors like the weather conditions, season, soil type,

lighting, and humidity. In summertime, Dieffenbachia needs more water.

Excessive water might result in fleshy roots, weakened growth, and fungal stems.

Proper soil drainage helps the plant grow comfortably. Replace tap water with

rain water or purified water if the edges of the leaves turn brownish. Remember

to mist the leaves in dry cold seasons.

Temperature

The most appropriate temperature for the plant is between 15 and 24 degrees

Celsius. At below 15 degrees, you might threaten its life. Avoid keeping it in cold

places.

Humidity

The natural habitat for Dieffenbachia translates into warm and humid

environment. Like all tropical plants, it loves moisture. Try to moisturize it with a

water spray or place it in a kitchen or bathroom. Keep it away from heaters and

stoves.

Proper Soil

Use disinfected cocopeat and peat moss mixture and lay pebbles at the bottom of

the pot to improve drainage. Pots should contain a hole at the bottom. Every 2

weeks, feed the plant with diluted, balanced fertilizers; best one is 20-20-20.

Avoid using fertilizers in cold times. The appropriate soil pH is acidic.

How to clean the plant

To clean the leaves, put on gardening gloves to avoid poisoning. Gently clean the

leaves with a damp cloth or sponge. Be careful to do this before watering as the

leaves might become brittle after watering.