If you’re like many people, you may not have heard of dieffenbachia before. But, this popular houseplant is easy to care for and has various benefits.
Some of the common household names for the dieffenbachia include:
- Dumb cane
- Mother-in-law’s tongue
- Leopard lily
The common name “Dumb Cane” is derived from the fact that if someone chews on the leaves of the plant, they will become temporarily unable to speak due to tongue swelling.
There is a similar reason for it being called mother-in-law’s tongue.
It is said that the plant got this name because if Mother-In-Law were to eat the leaves, they would be temporarily unable to speak.
Finally, it is called Leopard Lily due to the spots on the plant’s leaves, which resemble a leopard’s spots.
Some further scientific names include:
- Dieffenbachia seguine
- Dieffenbachia amoena
- Dieffenbachia picta
If you’re still considering adding Dieffenbachia, here are a few reasons why you might want to get one for your home:
- Dieffenbachia is great for improving air quality. It’s been shown to remove harmful toxins from the air, like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.
- Dieffenbachia can also help reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that plants in your home can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
- And last but not least, dieffenbachia is simply beautiful. With its large, green leaves and white or yellow variegations, it’s a great way to add some color and life to your home.
Quick Facts On Dieffenbachia
- Family: Araceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Frequent watering, allow to dry out between
- Fertilizer: Balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength
- Propagation: Stem cuttings
- Common Problems: Aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites, rot
Dieffenbachia Care
The dieffenbachia is a popular houseplant because it’s easy to care for.
With proper care, dieffenbachia can thrive for years. So add one to your home and enjoy its beauty and benefits today.
Here are some tips on how to care for your dieffenbachia:
What Does The Dumb Cane Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The dieffenbachia is a perennial evergreen herb that can grow up to 6′ to 8′ feet tall.
It has dark green, glossy leaves that are pointed with white spots or streaks running down them.
When Does The Dumb Cane Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The dieffenbachia flowers are small, white, and borne in clusters.
It blooms in the summer and fall, but the flowers are not fragrant.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Dieffenbachia prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Unfortunately, too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Dieffenbachia is a tropical plant, so it prefers warm, humid conditions.
When grown indoors, it is best to place dieffenbachia near an east or west-facing window.
The dumb cane plant will also do well under artificial fluorescent light.
It’s not particular about temperature but prefers warmth.
It will do well in average room temperatures ranging from 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit.
It can also tolerate temperatures as low as 60° degrees Fahrenheit when grown outdoors.
If your home is on the dry side, you may need to mist your dumb cane regularly or set it on a pebble tray filled with water.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The Dumb Cane Plant?
Water your dumb cane plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilize dieffenbachia monthly during the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength. You can also use slow-release pellets or granules.
Reduce fertilization to every other month during the fall and winter.
What Is The Best Soil For The Dieffenbachia Plant, And When Should You Transplant?
Dieffenbachia prefers a light, well-draining potting mix.
You can make your own by mixing together equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
It’s best to transplant your dumb cane plant every 2 to 3 years in the spring.
Choose a new pot that is only one size larger than the current one.
If you are transplanting outdoors, choose a shady spot.
Does The Dieffenbachia Plant Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
No, the dieffenbachia does not require specific grooming or maintenance.
However, to keep the plant looking its best, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust.
You can also cut back the dieffenbachia if it becomes too leggy or overgrown.
How To Over-Winter Dieffenbachia?
If you live in an area where the temperature drops below 60°degrees Fahrenheit in the winter, it’s best to bring your dieffenbachia indoors.
Place the plant in a bright spot near a window and water as needed to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
You can also cut back dieffenbachia in the fall to help it survive the winter months.
Is The Dieffenbachia Plant Poisonous?
The dieffenbachia is considered poisonous and should be kept away from children and pets.
In addition, all parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation and swelling if ingested.
If you suspect your child or pet has ingested dieffenbachia, seek medical attention immediately.
How To Propagate Leopard Lily?
One of the best things about Dieffenbachia or Leopard lily is that it is very easy to propagate.
This means that you can easily create new plants from cuttings, which is a great way to fill up your home with more plants without spending any money.
To propagate Dieffenbachia, simply do the following:
- Take a cutting from an existing plant and place it in water.
- You can then transfer the cutting to the soil once it has roots.
- Be sure to water it regularly and place it in a location with plenty of sunlight.
Dieffenbachia Pests And Diseases
The dieffenbachia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to:
- Mealybugs
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
These pests can cause the plant leaves to yellow and drop off.
Keep your dumb cane plant clean and debris-free to prevent pests and disease problems.
You should also check the plant regularly for any signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly.
If your dieffenbachia has pests, you can treat them with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
However, if your dieffenbachia has a disease, you can treat it with a fungicide. These products are available at most garden stores.
Suggested Uses for Mother-In-Law’s Tongue
Dieffenbachia, or mother-in-law’s tongue, is a very popular houseplant known for its beautiful, variegated leaves.
It is also easy to care for, making it an excellent plant for beginners. If you’re looking for a plant that will add some life to your home, Mother-In-Law’s Tongue is a great choice.
Dieffenbachia can be used as a houseplant or in the garden. It is also popular for office settings and public spaces because it tolerates low light and neglect.
It’s also an excellent plant for purifying the air, as it has been shown to remove harmful toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and benzene.
Dieffenbachia is also known to be a very effective natural insecticide. In addition, the sap from the plant can be used to repel ants, cockroaches, and other pests.
If you want a dieffenbachia specifically grown for its ornamental value, ‘Tropic Snow’ is a good choice. It has very beautiful, creamy white leaves with green margins. ‘Tropic Snow’ can be found at most garden stores.
If you are looking to plant it in your outdoor garden, Dieffenbachia does best in partial shade.
Dieffenbachia is a very easy plant to care for and can be a beautiful addition to any home.