Dumb cane
Dieffenbachia seguine
Tropical evergreen houseplant with large variegated leaves, commonly called dumb cane; popular ornamental plant; toxic if ingested.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: highly toxic
All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals and are poisonous if chewed; cause oral irritation, swelling, drooling and vomiting. Keep away from children and pets.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place Dieffenbachia in bright, indirect light—near an east or filtered west window. Avoid direct midday sun which will scorch variegated leaves. It tolerates medium light but will grow more slowly and lose variegation in low light.
Water
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Water thoroughly until excess drains and empty the saucer. Reduce frequency in winter; avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot. Adjust schedule for pot size and humidity.
Humidity
Prefers medium to high humidity (around 50%+). Increase humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, grouping plants, or regular misting, especially in dry winter indoor air.
Temperature
Keep between 16–29°C (60–85°F). Avoid cold drafts and sudden drops below about 15°C (59°F); temperatures consistently above 30°C (86°F) can cause stress.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Lower leaves yellowing and dropping
Cause: Overwatering, poor drainage, or root rot
Solution: Check soil moisture and drainage, reduce watering, repot into fresh well-draining mix if root rot is suspected, trim damaged roots and leaves.
Brown leaf tips and margins
Cause: Low humidity, salt buildup, underwatering, or fluoride sensitivity
Solution: Increase humidity, flush soil occasionally to remove salts, adjust watering, and trim brown tips. Use distilled water if fluoride is suspected.
Leggy or pale growth
Cause: Insufficient light or lack of nutrients
Solution: Move to brighter indirect light, rotate plant regularly, and start a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Pests: spider mites, mealybugs, scale
Cause: Dry air and plant stress increase susceptibility
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves with soapy water, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, repeat treatments and increase humidity to discourage pests.
✂️How to Propagate Dumb cane
Stem cuttings: cut 10–15 cm sections with at least one node and a leaf. Let cuts callus briefly, then root in water or a moist, well-draining mix. Keep warm (20–25°C) and humid; roots usually form in 2–6 weeks. Air-layering: wound a stem, pack moist sphagnum around the wound, wrap with plastic and wait for roots to appear before cutting and potting. Division: remove plant, separate connected root clumps and repot each division in fresh mix.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Tropical Central and South America, including the West Indies
Natural Habitat: Understory of humid tropical forests, growing in shaded or dappled light with warm temperatures and rich, well-draining humus soils. Often found at forest edges and along streams.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and stop regular fertilizing. Maintain warmth and humidity; avoid cold drafts. Keep soil slightly drier to slow growth and prevent rot.
Spring
Resume regular watering and monthly fertilizing as growth resumes. Consider repotting if rootbound and prune leggy stems to promote bushiness.
Summer
Provide consistent moisture, bright indirect light, and higher humidity. Feed every 4–6 weeks with balanced fertilizer and monitor for pests.
Fall
Gradually reduce feeding and water a bit less as growth slows. Check for pests and prepare for lower indoor light and drier air in winter.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Dieffenbachia?
Water every 7–14 days, allowing the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings. Frequency varies with light, pot size and season.
Is dumb cane poisonous to pets?
Yes. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause severe oral irritation, swelling and vomiting if ingested. Keep away from pets and children.
What soil is best for dumb cane?
Use a light, well-draining potting mix with peat or coco coir and perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration and drainage.
How do I propagate Dieffenbachia?
Propagate by stem cuttings rooted in water or moist mix, by air-layering stems, or by division. Keep cuttings warm and humid until roots form.
Why are my dumb cane leaves drooping?
Drooping can indicate overwatering, underwatering, cold drafts, or shock. Check soil moisture and room temperature and adjust care.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025