Dieffenbachia Plant Care Guide
Dieffenbachia — Noun
Erect, poisonous tropical plants of the Arum family, Araceae, known for their usually variegated leaves. Originally from the tropics of South America, Mexico, and the West Indies.
Pronounced: Diff — En — Back — E — Ah
Genus: Dieffenbachia is a genus of over 51 recognised species of upright, cane-like plants in the Arum (Aroid/Araceae) family, characterised by thick oblong leaves and unisexual flowers.
First Use: The first known use of the word 'Dieffenbachia' was circa 1900. These plants were named after Herr Joseph Dieffenbach, the head gardener at the Royal Palace Gardens, Schönbrunn, Vienna during the 1830s.
Name Meaning: The name “Dieffenbachia” is derived from the name of Joseph Dieffenbach, with no direct Latin meaning.
Otherwise known as:
Dumb Canes
Leopard Lily
Tuftroot
Overview: Dieffenbachia plants not only come in a wide variety of patterns and colours, but they are also very easy to care for, making them popular houseplants worldwide. They're adaptable to low lighting, low humidity, under-watering, and neglect, making them perfect for homes not already adapted for more demanding houseplants. Dieffenbachia are nicknamed Dumb Cane due to their toxic nature — please check our safety guide for more information.
Dieffenbachia 'Seguine Sublime'
Figures
Ultimate height
0.5–3.5 metres
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
3–5 years
Dieffenbachia lifespan
10+ years
Dieffenbachia Plant Facts & Figures
In The Pot
Soil
Sand
Loam
Clay
Chalk
Moisture
Moist but well–draining soil
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Out Of The Pot
Windows
Any window without direct sun is suitable, but lower light will cause them to get leggy, colours may change and growth will slow down. There could be potential health issues with smaller plants in low lighting.
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
Should be kept under glass or indoors. Dieffenbachia can't tolerate frosts.
Temperature Tolerance: 15 °C (59 °F) – 29 °C (84.2 °F)
Facts
Family
Arum family, Araceae.
Native to GB / Ireland
No — Native to Central and South America
Foliage & Habit
Evergreen. Upright, Clump Forming
Safety
Highly poisonous. Avoid sap. Can cause extreme skin & eye irritation.
How To Safely Handle Poisonous Dieffenbachia Plants
Dieffenbachia contain a toxic sap that can be harmful if ingested or if it comes into contact with the skin. Dieffenbachia plants earned the nickname 'Dumb Cane' for their sap strength, as it can render you 'dumb' and speechless. We advise extreme caution when handling Dumb Cane sap. Wear gloves when handling, wash your hands after touching sap, and keep out of reach of children and pets. Educate family members so that they know not to touch them and what will happen if they do.
Toxicity Overview: Dieffenbachia plants are part of the Araceae family, which includes many other common houseplants that produce calcium oxalate crystals, including Aglaonema, Pothos, Scindapsus, Philodendron, Monstera, Alocasia, and Peace Lilies. These crystals are what make the sap of these plants toxic. When the plant's tissues are damaged, these needle-like crystals are released, causing irritation. Dieffenbachia is the worst plant for toxicity levels, followed by Aglaonema, so we advise using caution when handling Dieffenbachia plants and always recommend wearing gloves. If you touch it, wash your hands immediately without delay and wash at least 3 times with a grease remover like washing up liquid. The other plants in the Araceae family do still contain calcium oxalate but in much lower quantities that are a lot safer, so they're still inedible, but it's less of an issue to handle their sap without gloves.
Symptoms of Exposure: Dieffenbachia sap contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause a range of irritating symptoms if it comes into contact with skin, eyes, or is ingested. When the sap touches the skin, it can cause redness, itching, and a burning sensation. It's best to wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid skin irritation. If the sap gets into the eyes, it can cause pain, redness, and swelling. It's crucial to rinse the eyes immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if irritation persists. Chewing or swallowing parts of the Dieffenbachia plant can lead to intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. This swelling can make it difficult to speak or swallow and, in severe cases, can affect breathing. This is why Dieffenbachia is sometimes called “Dumb Cane”—the swelling can temporarily impair speech, making it difficult for someone to talk. Inhaling dust from dried parts of the plant can cause respiratory irritation and discomfort. If someone comes into contact with Dieffenbachia sap, it's important to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and to seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or persist. If pets chew Dieffenbachia, they may drool, vomit, or have mouth swelling and need veterinary assistance. Should your pet display any of these symptoms, or if they're ill and there's a chance they could have had access to a Dieffenbachia plant, it's always essential to tell your vet.
Warning: Highly poisonous. Toxic to humans & pets.
Dieffenbachia 'White Etna'
Dieffenbachia 'Seguine Sublime'
Dieffenbachia Lighting
Dieffenbachia plants are household names thanks to their beautiful foliage and easy care needs. One of the biggest issues with Dieffenbachia health are lighting issues, which can cause a wide range of common problems. Here’s a detailed Dieffenbachia plant care guide to ensure your Dumb Cane stays beautiful and vibrant by giving it the best light possible:
Dieffenbachia Lighting Requirements
Dieffenbachia thrive in low to moderate light conditions, making them perfect for areas of your home that do not receive direct sunlight. Commercial growers in Europe grow them using 60% shade cloths, proving that these plants can do well in places with less sunlight. They're good to keep in rooms with fewer windows and offices, however, when they get too little light they can change colour or lose their patterns.
Ideal Dieffenbachia Light Conditions
Indirect Light: Dieffenbachia plants prefer bright, indirect light. Place them near a north or east-facing window where they can receive lots of natural lighting without being exposed to full sun. Direct sunlight can burn their delicate leaves and cause them to lose their colours and patterns, and even cause them to die in extreme cases. If in doubt, move your Dieffenbachia 2ft (0.61 m) away from the window and monitor the plant closely for further issues.
Low Light Tolerance: One of the main reasons that Dieffenbachia plants are beloved worldwide is their ability to tolerate low lighting. While they may not grow as quickly or develop as vivid colour foliage in lower light, they will still survive and add natural beauty to your space.
Artificial Light: If your home lacks good natural light, Dieffenbachias can also thrive under fluorescent lighting or LED grow lights. This makes Dumb Cane plants perfect for office environments or spaces with limited access to windows. Ensure your dieffenbachia receives a minimum of 12–14 hours of artificial light daily to mimic their natural habitat. Watch for loss of colour or patterns and adjust accordingly. Check our artificial lighting guide for more detailed information.
Signs of Improper Lighting in Dieffenbachias
Dieffenbachia Has Yellowing Leaves: If your Dieffenbachia leaves start to go yellow, it may be a sign of too much direct sunlight. Move the plant to a location with less intense light. You can always add supplemental LED lighting to a darker spot in your home to make it more suitable for your Dieffenbachia, allowing you to move it away from the full sun window. Check our guide on LED grow lights for more information about the best types of artificial lighting for Dieffenbachia plants.
Dieffenbachia Has Leggy Growth: If your Dieffenbachia stems are stretching out and the plant appears sparse, it might be an indication that it’s not receiving enough light. Relocate the plant to a brighter spot or add supplemental lighting. If you have all cane and no leaves, it may be time for a hard prune to encourage your plant to bush out. Please read our Dieffenbachia safety guide before pruning, as the sap can be dangerous.
Dieffenbachia Has Faded Colours & Patterns: When Dieffenbachia are not getting enough light, their vibrant leaf colours and patterns may fade. Increasing the lighting can help restore their striking appearance. You see more green because the plant is trying to produce more chlorophyll, which are the cells that make food from light, so that it can photosynthesise more effectively — this is when the plant converts light energy to food.
Adjusting Dieffenbachia Lighting for Seasonal Changes
As the seasons change, the intensity, and the duration of natural lighting drastically changes, and you may need to move your Dieffenbachia plant. During the winter months, when light levels are lower, you may need to move your Aglaonema closer to a light source. In the summer, ensure it is protected from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Dieffenbachia 'Tropic Snow'
Dieffenbachia 'Compacta'
How Often To Water Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia prefer consistent moisture, but dislike being waterlogged. They hate soggy roots! Dumb Canes thrive in a well-draining soil that retains moisture whilst allowing any excess water to escape. Striking a balance is the key to preventing common issues like root rot or yellowing of the leaves.
How Often to Water Dieffenbachia
Spring and Summer: During the growing season, water your Dieffenbachia when the top 1 inch (2.54 cm) of soil feel dry to the touch. This typically means watering once a week, but it can vary depending on your home's humidity and temperature.
Autumn and Winter: In the cooler months, Dieffenbachias enter a period of slower growth and require less frequent watering. Check the soil moisture every 10–14 days, and water only when the top 2 inches (5.08 cm) of soil are dry.
Dieffenbachia Watering Tips
Check the Soil Moisture: Always check the soil moisture before watering your Dieffenbachia. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it's time to water. You can purchase a testing meter for moisture, which will take the hard work out of knowing when to water.
Use a Plant Safe Dechlorinator: A good quality dechlorinator designed for houseplants ensures that there aren't any chemicals left in your tap water which could harm your Dieffenbachia. Online sources often advise to off-gas tap water for 24-hrs to evaporate chlorine, but water companies are increasingly using chloramine to sanitise water which cannot be evaporated and must be removed by using a chemical dechlorinator.
Use Room Temperature Water: Always use water that has warmed to room temperature, as cold water can shock the roots.
Water Your Dieffenbachia Thoroughly: When watering Dieffenbachia plants, do so thoroughly until the water drains out the bottom to ensure the entire root ball is hydrated. Don't let the plant sit with soggy, wet roots for longer than 24 hours — we always recommend checking the pot the day after watering and emptying out any excess water.
Avoid Over Watering Dieffenbachia: Allow your Dieffenbachia soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot and diseases. Dumb canes are more tolerant of under watering than overwatering — they don't like to have wet feet.
Signs of Dieffenbachia Watering Issues
Dieffenbachia Has Yellowing Leaves: This can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and that you're allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Use a soil mix recipe designed for Dieffenbachia plants.
Dieffenbachia Has Wilting or Drooping Leaves: This may be a sign of under watering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering routine as needed.
Dieffenbachia Has Brown Leaf Tips: This can result from low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity around the Dieffenbachia plant and ensure you're watering consistently.
Dieffenbachia 'Seguine Sublime'
Dieffenbachia Humidity
Dieffenbachia prefer a medium humidity level of around 60-70% which can be easy to achieve in most homes without adding expensive equipment or risking the dreaded black mould! This level of humidity replicates their natural tropical habitat and helps keep their foliage lush and vibrant.
Higher humidity levels can prevent the common issue of browning leaf tips, which is a sign of dry air. Signs of too much humidity include water dripping from the tips of the Dieffenbachia leaves. To take the guesswork out of diagnosing your plant, consider using a digital hygrometer.
Tips to Increase Dieffenbachia Humidity
Misting: Gently misting your Dieffenbachia with water can help to increase humidity around the plant. Use a spray bottle to mist the leaves. Always do this in the evening after the sun has gone down to leave enough time before the sun comes up to prevent bacteria and fungal diseases from growing on the wet leaves.
Humidity Trays or Bowls: To raise local humidity without effecting the whole house, use bowls of water placed near the Dieffenbachia plant. Alternatively, add a humidity tray by placing a layer of pebbles in a shallow tray and filling it with water. Set your Dieffenbachia on top of the pebbles, ensuring the pot is above the water line. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant.
Humidifiers: Using a humidifier is a good way to achieve consistent humidity levels. Place an electric humidifier near your Dieffenbachia plant to allow the air to stay moist. Monitor the humidity so that it doesn't get too wet with a humidity meter.
Grouping Plants: Placing several plants together can create a small microclimate with higher humidity in your home. Plants naturally transpire from the leaves, which helps to humidify the surrounding air. This is a trade secret that we swear by here at The Houseplant Shop.
Avoid Drafts: Keep your Dieffenbachia away from cold drafts and direct air from heating or cooling vents. This can dry out the air and lower humidity levels around the plant, undoing any work you've done to increase the humidity.
Dieffenbachia 'Tropic Jewel'
The Right Temperature For Dieffenbachia Plants
Dieffenbachia plants prefer temperatures between 15 °C (59 °F) – 29 °C (84.2 °F). Dumb Canes are relatively hardy, but extreme temperature drops should be avoided at all costs as it can cause cell death in the plant. Keeping your Dieffenbachia in this range mimics their natural tropical habitat and promotes strong, healthy growth and vibrant, colourful foliage.
Avoiding Dieffenbachia Temperature Swings
Cold Temperatures: Dieffenbachias are sensitive to cold and can be damaged if they're exposed to temperatures below 15 °C (59 °F). Temperatures below this level could make the plant drop leaves and develop crispy, brown edges. Cold drafts from windows or doors during the winter months can be harmful. Place your Dieffenbachia plant away from any sources of cold air.
Hot Temperatures: While Dieffenbachia plants can tolerate higher temperatures, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 30 °C (86 °F) can cause too much stress. Ensure your plant is not placed near heat sources like radiators or heaters, which dry out the air and overheat the plant. High heat can do intense damage to foliage and can stunt growth.
Giving Your Dieffenbachia a Stable Environment
Like most houseplants, consistency is key for Dieffenbachias. Try to avoid temperature fluctuations and keep the temperatures as stable as possible. Quick changes in temperature can cause stress, which leads to yellowing of the leaves which will eventually fall off. Monitor temperatures using a digital temperature probe so that you can see what's happening even when you're not there to accurately diagnose plant temperature woes.
Dieffenbachia Seasonal Adjustments
During the cooler months, make sure your Dumb Cane is placed in a warm room away from drafts or cold windows. During summer, ensure the plant is protected from heat and full sunlight, which can cause leaf burn. If you moved your Dieffenbachia to a south window over the winter, ensure you move them away before the sun heats up again in spring.
Signs of Temperature Stress in Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia Has Yellowing Leaves: This can be a sign of cold stress or exposure to drafts. Ensure your plant is kept in a warm, stable environment. Yellowing leaf tips can also be a sign of over watering, so always check soil moisture levels. Alternatively, yellow leaves could be a symptom of a nutrient deficiency, consider feeding your Dieffenbachia with a good quality plant food. Check your Dieffenbachias soil to make sure your plant isn't sitting with wet, soggy feet.
Dieffenbachia Has Leaf Drop: Sudden changes in temperature can cause the plant to shed leaves. Check for any sources of drafts or rapid temperature changes. Make sure your plant dries out between watering and read our Dieffenbachia watering care guide for more detailed information.
Dieffenbachia Has Wilting or Browning Crispy Leaves: This can indicate heat stress. Move the plant to a cooler location and ensure it’s not near a heat source. Wilting could also be a sign of low moisture in the air, if this is the case for your plant, increasing humidity around your Dieffenbachia will help.
Dieffenbachia 'Seguine Sublime'
Repotting & Substrate — DIY Soil Mix For Dieffenbachia
To ensure your Dieffenbachia thrives, it's crucial to provide the right type of soil. Think of substrate like the foundations of a house — you wouldn't want your house to have bad foundations, and it's the same with our houseplants. We do not use or recommend peat due to environmental concerns, so all of our soil recipes are wildlife friendly as well as Dieffenbachia friendly!
The Best Soil For Dieffenbachia Plants
Commercial Soil & Choosing a Well-Draining Dieffenbachia Mix: When using pre-mixed bagged commercial soil, Dieffenbachia prefer a well-draining soil to prevent the dreaded root rot. Like most Aroids, Dieffenbachia love chunky, airy soil. In the wild, Dumb Canes thrive in a bark-filled, chunky soil, which is what you're aiming to replicate at home. If you can't find a pre-mixed bag suitable, try our DIY soil mix recipes below.
Easy DIY Soil Mix Recipe for Dieffenbachia: For a basic mix, add: 1 litre of coco coir, 1 litre of compost, 1 litre of perlite and 1 litre of orchid bark. Scale this soil recipe up until you have enough litres of soil to fill your new pot.
Advanced DIY Soil Mix for Dieffenbachia: Our favourite recipe for Dieffenbachia uses a more complex mix: 4 litres of coco coir, 4 litres of perlite, 4 litres of orchid bark, 2 litres of Lecca balls and 1 litre of worm castings. You can also add 1 litre each of pumice, activated charcoal, and unscented zeolite.
Sourcing Soil Mix Ingredients: If you can't find these ingredients locally or if you are the online shopping type, you can buy the soil mix components online here: Small Coco Coir Pack — Bulk Coco Coir Pack, Orchid Bark, Pumice, Horticultural Sand, Horticultural Grit, Worm Castings, Perlite, Lecca Balls, Activated Charcoal, Zeolite
Soil vs. Soilless Mix for Dieffenbachia: If you've ever had a pest problem in your home, you might now be seriously tempted to grow plants hydroponically with no soil so that pests can't survive in your plant's soil. However, coco coir is the compromise between them, giving you the best of both. Coir has natural antifungal properties which help prevent root rot, furthermore it's completely inert which means that pests can't survive in it unless you keep it so wet that it rots. You can pasteurise the coir before using it to guarantee there are no hitch-hikers that have jumped in during transport. You can add perlite or vermiculite to make it more chunky, but avoid adding any organic material that could decompose and attract pests. Be sure to stick to a good houseplant fertilizer, as coco coir has no natural nutrients in it to feed your plant.
Rich in Organic Matter: A soil mix rich in organic matter will provide all the necessary nutrients for your Dieffenbachia, especially when combined with a good plant feeding routine. Adding a handful of worm castings to your soil mix can provide a natural source of organic matter. Alternatively, you can add compost. If you don't add a source of organic food, use a complete all in one plant fertilizer like Ionic Formulex to add the nutrients back in.
Neutral pH: Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.5 with Dieffenbachia plants. Using the ingredients listed in our soil recipes above should give you a neutral pH. If you're buying pre-mixed commercial soil, check the bag for the pH reading before purchase.
Preparing to Pot Up Your Dieffenbachia
Inspect The Root Ball: Remove your Dieffenbachia from the pot so you can have a look at the root ball. If your plant doesn't have visible roots around the edge, it doesn't need repotting. If your roots look soggy and brown, you might have root rot issues. Cut off the mushy roots and consider repotting your Dumb Cane into a smaller pot to prevent any further damage.
Choose the Right Size Pot For Dieffenbachia: Select a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom and causing root rot. Always select a pot no more than 1 inch (2.54 cm) larger than the current root ball. If there's no visible roots around the outside of the soil, it isn't time to pot up yet. Never be afraid to drill extra drainage holes in a plastic pot using a size 4-6 wood drill bit.
Prepare the Soil Mix: Combine your DIY soil mix together in a bucket or large container. If you purchased a commercial substrate mix, open your soil bag so you are ready to pot up your Dieffenbachia.
Dieffenbachia Potting Process
Prepare the Pot: Place a small handful of soil at the bottom of the pot but leave the rest empty for now.
Prepare the Dieffenbachia Plant: Gently remove the Dieffenbachia plant from its now outgrown pot, being extremely careful not to damage the plant's roots. Place the plant in the new pot on top of the small handful of soil.
Fill Around the Roots: Add more soil mix around the edges of the Dieffenbachias roots, leaving roughly 1 inch (2.54 cm) of free space at the top of your pot. Press the soil down gently to eliminate air pockets. Don't press too hard, as the soil can end up too dense, which can be detrimental to your Dieffenbachias root health long term.
Water: Water the Dieffenbachia plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the holes at the bottom of the pot. If your pot doesn't drain well enough, never be afraid to drill extra holes in it using a size 4-6 wood drill bit. Let the water drain fully for 10 minutes before disposing of any excess water. Check the plant 24 hours later for any excess water in the pot or tray, and empty as needed.
Dieffenbachia 'Seguine Sublime'
Dieffenbachia Fertilizer & Feeding Schedule
Even the most laid back plants need a bit of attention occasionally. For your Dieffenbachia, that means providing a balanced and complete plant food to keep those beautiful colours vivid and those luscious leaves vibrant. Feeding your plant is almost like giving a vitamin supplement to your Dieffenbachia — it’s what takes your Dumb Cane from “surviving” to “thriving!”. Here are some great options for fertilizing your Dieffenbachia:
The Right Liquid Fertilizer For Dieffenbachia Plants
A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, like 20-20-20 or 10-10-10, is ideal for Dieffenbachia plants. This offers an awesome mix of nutrients for general plant health. The Houseplant Shop exclusively uses Formulex Fertilizer as a more complete, all in one micro and macro feed for our Dieffenbachias. It delivers great results with our young and old Dieffenbachia alike.
Slow-Release Fertilizer For Easy Dieffenbachia Feeding
For a zero maintenance Dieffenbachia fertilizer choice, purchase a good value balanced slow-release fertilizer like this one. Always check the label and make sure you don't go over 20-20-20 or 10-10-10. Mix the granules into the soil, and gradually, it will release those nutrients to your plant and allow it to take in a balanced diet over a longer period of time than you would get with liquid fertilizer.
The Best Organic Fertilizer For Dieffenbachia
Organic plant food like organic seaweed extract, or organic worm castings are also great choices for a more gentle and natural approach. Only ever buy these from reputable sources, as they can be contaminated with pest eggs. Live worms in castings are fine, just pop these in the garden, but you don't want spider mites along for the ride! These organic and natural Dieffenbachia fertilizers are a little gentler than liquid plant food additives, whilst still providing essential micronutrients and macronutrients that promote healthy growth.
The Best Biofertilizers For Dieffenbachia
Another great natural solution for feeding your Dumb Cane includes microorganism feeds. When these bio fertilizers are added to the soil, they boost soil fertility and promote plant growth. At The Houseplant Shop, we use biofertilizers as stress reducers when pruning plants or repotting them, but we never rely on biofertilizers as they don't contain a complete range of nutrients for Dieffenbachia plants.
The Right Feeding Schedule For Dieffenbachia Plants
Spring and Summer: Feed your Dieffenbachia every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. During these months, the Dumb Canes are in their active growth season, therefore using fertilizer in those months will encourage new healthy growth from your Dieffenbachia.
Autumn and Winter: During the milder months, Dieffenbachia plants need less food. Cut back to every 8–10 weeks, dilute your feed by adding 50% less fertilizer concentrate, or even pause your plant food regime temporarily to keep your Dumb Cane balanced and to prevent burnt leaf tips.
Dieffenbachia 'Vesuvius'
How To Prune Dieffenbachia Plants
Pruning is an essential aspect of Dieffenbachia care that promotes healthy growth, prevents disease, and keeps your plant looking its best. Here’s a comprehensive guide to pruning your Dieffenbachia:
Dieffenbachia Sap is Highly Poisonous
How To Manage Working With Toxic Sap
Dieffenbachia contain a toxic sap that can be harmful if ingested or if it comes into contact with the skin, causing irritation, redness, and itching. Ingestion leads to burning sensations in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and swelling of the throat. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the plant, and avoid touching your face. Cats and dogs may be affected if they chew the leaves or stems. Symptoms in pets can include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, it can lead to serious health issues requiring veterinary attention. For more information, see our Dieffenbachia sap safety guide.
Why Prune Your Dieffenbachia?
Pruning helps maintain the shape and size of your Dieffenbachia, encouraging it to grow more robustly. It also removes dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves, which can help prevent disease and pest infestations. Regular pruning keeps your Dumb Cane looking lush and attractive.
Dieffenbachia Growing With No Leaves On Stem?
If your Dumb Cane has too much cane with no leaves, then it may be time for a hard prune to promote it to bush out and grow more densely. If your Dieffenbachia has too much stem, the easiest way to fix this is to cut the plant back to the base and allow it to start again. This will force your Dieffenbachia to grow leaves on the stem again and prevent long leafless canes. One of the hardest parts of owning a Dieffenbachia is managing the stem growing too long with no leaves on it, unfortunately, it is something that most Dumb Cane owners eventually face. Never be afraid to chop your Dieffenbachia off at the base to prevent it from growing too tall with no leaves on the lower parts of the stem. Put cut off stems into water to propagate them, eventually adding them back into the pot to help create a more dense foliage in the Dieffenbachias pot.
When to Prune Your Dieffenbachia
Prune your Dieffenbachia throughout the year as needed, but the best time for more substantial pruning is during the spring and summer growing seasons. This is when the plant is most active and can recover quickly from pruning. If you're chopping your Dieffenbachia back to the base to encourage it to grow more leaves on the stem, avoid doing this in the winter. Should you have to prune mid-winter, make sure to keep it somewhere warm with good lighting.
How to Prune Your Dieffenbachia
Plant Pruning Tools: Use clean, sharp pruning shears. To prevent the spread of disease, disinfect your pruning shears before and after use. You can use rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution.
Identify Dead or Yellowing Dieffenbachia Leaves: Look for any leaves that are yellowing, browning, or damaged. These leaves should be removed to keep the plant healthy and to enhance the appearance.
Cut Close to the Base: When removing a leaf, make your cut close to the base of the Dieffenbachia stem. This prevents leaving unsightly stubs. Always wipe your pruning shears in-between each cut to prevent the spread of bacterial and fungal diseases.
Trim Leggy Growth: If your Dieffenbachia has become leggy with long stems and sparse leaves, trim back the stems to encourage bushier growth. Cut just above a node (where a leaf joins the stem) to promote new growth from that point. Move your plant to a brighter spot to avoid leggy growth. Sometimes, Dieffenbachia can shed their lower leaves, getting a tree trunk like cane appearance. If you don't like this, cut your plant back to the base, leaving around 5 inches (ca. 13 cm) of stem in the spring. This allows it to regrow from the bottom and promotes bushier, denser growth.
Shape the Dieffenbachia Plant: Prune to maintain the shape and size of your Aglaonema. If it has grown too large for your space, you can selectively remove some larger leaves or stems to keep it compact. Try not to worry if your plant's new look is a little drastic — it will grow back quickly after a hard prune with the right aftercare.
Dieffenbachia Pruning Aftercare
After pruning, provide your Dieffenbachia with good basic plant care to help it recover as quickly as possible:
Watering: Water your Dieffenbachia plant thoroughly after pruning to help it recover and encourage new growth. Visit our Dieffenbachia watering guide for more information.
Lighting: Ensure your Aglaonema is in a spot with bright, indirect light to support its recovery. Visit our Dieffenbachia lighting guide for more information.
Feeding: Consider feeding your Dieffenbachia plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to give it a boost after pruning. Visit our Dieffenbachia fertilizer guide for more information on which fertilizer to buy for Dumb Cane plants.
Common Dieffenbachia Pruning Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Pruning Dieffenbachia: Avoid cutting back large sections of your dumb cane all at once. Removing more than one-third of the plant’s foliage at a time can drastically stress the plant, cause long term stunted growth, or even a total loss of the plant.
Leaving Stubs & Disease Prevention: Make clean, close cuts at the base of the Dieffenbachia stem to prevent long stubs. Always wipe your pruning shears in-between each cut to prevent the spread of bacterial and fungal diseases. If the stub doesn't want to come off, don't force it. Leave it to turn yellow, and it will come away much easier, but be careful not to leave it for too long as it will start to rot, and this can attract pest infestations or cause diseases.
Neglecting to Disinfect Pruning Shears: Always disinfect your pruning tools to prevent the spread of pathogens. It's good form to clean your blades in-between each individual cut, plus before and after you use them with a disinfectant. This helps to prevent spreading disease, bacteria, and fungus which could do a lot of harm to your plant if it gets infected.
Dieffenbachia 'Compacta'
Propagating Dieffenbachia Plants
Propagating Dieffenbachia is a little different to most plants, as you can't take a leaf or node cutting. Dumb Canes are usually propagated via division or stem cuttings. These propagation methods can seem a little scary at first, however, they're a reliable way to propagate your Dieffenbachia with high success rates. At The Houseplant Shop, we prefer stem cuttings as our favourite method to reproduce Dumb Canes.
Dieffenbachia Sap is Poisonous
How To Manage Working With Toxic Sap
Dieffenbachia contain a toxic sap that can be harmful if ingested or if it comes into contact with the skin, causing irritation, redness, and itching. Ingestion leads to burning sensations in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and swelling of the throat. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the plant, and avoid touching your face. Cats and dogs may be affected if they chew the leaves or stems. Symptoms in pets can include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, it can lead to serious health issues requiring veterinary attention. For more information, see our Dieffenbachia sap safety guide.
Propagating Dieffenbachia Via Division
This is the easiest and most common method for propagating Dieffenbachia. It involves dividing the plant's root clump to create new plants. Be careful not to snap stems, as this can cause the stem to die off, forcing you to regrow them from a stump. Luckily, Dieffenbachia are perennial so if you cut the foliage off, as long as it's warm enough it will grow back.
How To Propagate Dieffenbachia Via Division:
Prepare Your Tools: Gather a clean, sharp knife or set of pruning shears, and a few small pots with some well-draining soil prepared.
Remove the Dumb Cane Plant: Gently remove the Aglaonema from its pot. Be careful not to damage the roots as you remove it.
Divide the Dieffenbachia Plant: Look for natural divisions in the root clump where pups have formed. Using your knife or shears, carefully separate these sections, cutting through the roots and any joins in the stems, making sure that each individual division has several leaves and a good root system. Like most Aroids, if you don't leave any nodes on a stem, it won't grow and your cutting will fail, so make sure there's at least one node on each cutting.
Pot the Dumb Cane Divisions: Plant each division in a small pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the newly potted plants thoroughly. Alternatively, put them in a jar of room temperature dechlorinated water. Cuttings usually take a few weeks to develop enough roots in water to be transplanted to soil. You can tell when they're ready by checking if the big roots have baby roots coming from them.
Care for the New Dieffenbachia Plants: Place the young Dumb Cane plants in a location with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the plants are fully established. If using a jar of water, change half of the water once a week. Although many sources online tell you to do it every 3 days, we believe it slows down root development by forcing the plant to reproduce the rooting hormones in the water urgently each time you change it. For this reason, we never change all of our cutting water. A trade secret is that we actually use old cutting water as a rooting agent for new cuttings — we always mix some old water in with a new jar of freshly cut plants.
Dieffenbachia Camilla 40 Days After Stem Propagation
Dieffenbachia Seguine 21 Days After Stem Propagation
Dieffenbachia Camilla 14 Days After Stem Propagation
Dieffenbachia Seguine Sublime 40 Days After Stem Propagation
Propagating Dieffenbachia Via Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be used to propagate Dumb Canes, although this method requires a bit more patience and can be a little trickier. The bonus to this method of propagation is that the mother plant (the one you took the cutting from) grows back much more dense and bushier after taking cuttings. Each stem cut on a Dieffenbachia usually gives you two new growth points, so by cutting one stem, you're gaining two new stems back over time.
Dieffenbachia Stem Propagation Method:
Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves. Try to only use healthy leaves, as any minor stresses will be made worse once cut, which could lead to total failure of a cutting.
Cut the Dieffenbachia Stem: Using a clean, sharp knife or a set of pruners, cut the stem just below a node (the point where a leaf joins the stem). If you don't leave a node on the stem, the plant won't be able to form roots.
Prepare the Dieffenbachia Cutting: Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving at least one or two leaves at the top. Two is always better than one as it gives you faster foliage growth rates and the cutting is quicker to establish roots.
Optional Rooting Hormone: Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage root development. We mix our rooting hormone with Mycorrhizal Fungi, which encourages faster root growth by promoting good soil health.
Plant the Dieffenbachia Cutting: Place the stem cutting in a pot filled with well-draining Dieffenbachia soil. Alternatively, you can place the cutting in water until roots develop, then transfer into soil. You know It's ready to transfer when the main thick roots have tiny baby roots coming off them.
Provide the Right Conditions: Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity. Covering the pot with a clear plastic bag can help create a humid environment.
Watering Dieffenbachia Cuttings: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. If rooting in water, change half of the water every week. We don't recommend following the common advice online of changing your water every 3 days, as we believe that the water contains natural rooting hormones that the plant produces. Emptying the water too often can cause your cutting to halt root development to produce extra rooting hormones to replace what you emptied out, stunting growth and delaying root development.
Transplanting: Once roots have developed, transplant the cutting to a larger pot with a well-draining Dumb Cane soil mix. It usually takes a few weeks for roots to develop ready for transplanting, but in the right environmental conditions, your cutting may be ready sooner.
Tips for Successful Dieffenbachia Propagation
Clean Tools: Always use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease and ensure clean cuts.
Humidity: High humidity levels aid in the rooting process. Consider using a humidity tray or misting the cuttings regularly.
Patience: Be patient and allow time for the roots to develop. Some cuttings may take longer to root than others, and Dumb Canes can be slow sometimes.
Dieffenbachia 'Tropic Snow'
Dieffenbachia Pests & Problems
Even Dieffenbachia with perfect environments with their exact care needs met can run into a few problems. As plant keepers, we do have to face unwanted guests, pesky pests and common houseplant issues. The trick to surviving these invasions is enabling your Dieffenbachia to live to tell the tale. Here's how to tackle a full scale home invasion that may harm your Dieffenbachia.
Common Pest Species:
Spider Mites: These pesky pests can spin webs at the bottom of a plant's stems and leaves. Mites suck the life out of a plant until it dies, so this isn't the sort of pest that you can ignore. Spider Mites have a 2-4 week life cycle and can often be found by spotting fine spider webs in the lower parts of your plants. It may look like a spider has moved into your plant pot, however, it's usually not a spider, but you'll wish it was!
Aphids: These invaders are typically brought in from our gardens or through our windows and can be tricky to get rid of once established due to the 30-day life cycle. Eggs are laid within the plant's structure to hide them and are typically impossible to see. Always continue treatment for several full adult life cycles. Consider using a systemic pesticide to provide a 4-week window of treatment.
Mealy Bugs: Unfortunately, these are one of the worst pests to find on your Aglaonema. These fluffy white bugs hide in leaf joints and look like large lice with very visible legs and antennae, and visible hairs. Mealy Bugs are tiny, with adults looking like young woodlouse and babies being so small you can barely see them with the naked eye. Their eggs look like cottony white dots left under leaves or in the crooks of stems, or even in the soil. It can be helpful to change your Dieffenbachias soil if you have a bad mealy bug infestation. The life cycle is 4–7 weeks from egg to adult, so you must be vigilant for eggs hatching out, and you must keep reapplying treatments or spot dabbing them with alcohol, as we will discuss later on in this pest guide. Consider using a systemic treatment to give you a 4-week window with your pest treatment. If you can't re-apply a systemic yet, resort to other methods listed below until you can re-apply it.
Scale Insects: These hard-shelled pests can be hard to manage. Scrape them off the Aglaonema gently with a soft brush and spray the plant down with our DIY pesticide recipe.
DIY Pesticide vs Shop Bought Pesticide For Dieffenbachia
Natural Leaf Wipe: As a natural preventative and spot treatment, you can wipe leaves with undiluted pure neem oil to give them a gentle shine whilst deterring any pests. This is best used a supplemental treatment if you have an established infestation, and as a preventative once you have eradicated the pests.
Instant Death: Spot dab plant pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to instantly finish them off. This is a tried and tested classic method, well-loved worldwide. If the pests don't instantly die when they're drenched in the liquid, pick them off the Dieffenbachia and put them into a container with enough alcohol to completely cover them — few pests can survive that.
Natural Homemade DIY Dieffenbachia Pesticide: If you’re having pest issues with your Dieffenbachia, we recommend an insecticidal soap based approach as a first line of defence, as it's much more gentle on your Dumb Cane. To make a simple DIY neem oil and soap recipe, mix 1 teaspoon of neem oil with 1/2 teaspoon of insecticidal soap and 1 litre of water and apply with a spray bottle. When applying the DIY pesticide, ensure all parts of the plant are covered in the pest spray. You can re-apply this solution every few days without hurting your plants until there's no more signs of pests.
Natural Dieffenbachia Pesticide: If you prefer an easier premixed shop-bought solution, you can buy concentrated neem and soap treatments like SB Plant Invigorator. Make sure you follow the directions on the back of the bottle. This natural pesticide is a concentrated mix of soap and neem oil with added nutrients. You cannot reapply these sprays every few days as the nutrients could burn the Dieffenbachias leaves.
Chemical Pesticide: For a more hardline approach, we recommend a systemic pesticide to give you a 4-week window through all stages of the pest's life cycle without repeated treatments. The one systemic pesticide available in the UK currently is Acetamiprid concentrate. This is known to cause some distortion in new growth immediately after application. To fix Acetamiprid distorted new growth, simply cut the distorted bits off back to the last healthy point. Your Dieffenbachia plant should grow back with normal leaves after some time — this is a normal side effect of this pesticide.
Common Problems: Fixing Dieffenbachia Plant Woes
Dieffenbachia Has Yellow Leaves: If your Dieffenbachia has yellow leaves, it could be over watering. If the soil is soggy when you go to water, let it dry out for longer and reduce watering frequency. Consider investing in a plant moisture tester to take the guessing out of your watering schedule. Always check pots to ensure that they have good drainage and that your Dieffenbachia soil recipe is chunky and airy.
Dieffenbachia Has Brown Leaf Tips: Low humidity or under watering can cause browning leaf tips. Monitor your humidity levels, and increase localised humidity as needed. We don't recommend regularly misting plants as it can lead to fungal issues. However, if you wish to mist, do so with caution, only spraying the leaves at night to allow them enough time to dry before light hits the leaves. This prevents fungal and bacterial issues developing on your leaves due to the excess moisture.
Dieffenbachia Has Leggy Growth: If your Dieffenbachia plant looks more vine than leaves, it might need more light, or if it looks more cane than leaves, it may need a hard prune to encourage it to bush out. Most Dieffenbachia plants start to look leggy when they're not getting their needs met — it's one of the first signs of lighting issues. Try moving your plant to a brighter spot or adding supplemental LED lighting.
Dieffenbachia Has Root Rot: If the Dieffenbachia roots are black and mushy, your plant might be suffering from root rot due to overwatering. Cut off the affected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Dieffenbachia Loosing Leaves: If your houseplant is loosing leaves, it could simply be a part of the ageing process. As Dumb Cane plants make new leaves, they naturally shed the lower leaves that don't get much light. The plant doesn't want to put all that energy into a leaf that can't photosynthesise as well as newer ones, they love efficiency. They go yellow as the plant pulls all the nutrients out to recycle. It can be beneficial to leave them on the plant until they've gone fully yellow to encourage maximum nutrient recycling. If Dieffenbachia plants are throwing off more than one or two leaves at a time, have a look at plant care or its environment. Premature yellowing of Dumb Cane leaves is usually overwatering, or soil that's too dense and wet. Nutrient deficiencies also cause leaves to die off as they pull the nutrients that they need from older leaves. If there's no feeding schedule and plants are dropping leaves, it's always worth using a good quality fertilizer.
Dieffenbachia 'Compacta'
25 Colourful Dieffenbachia Varieties
Dieffenbachia 'Camille or Camilla'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Camille or Camilla'
Colour: Green and cream variegation with striking pale leaf centres in bright indirect lighting
Unique Features: Large, oval-shaped leaves with striking colour pale cream almost white contrast.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Tropic Snow'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Tropic Snow'
Colour: Green and white variegation
Unique Features: Large, variegated leaves that are visually appealing with lots of white spots.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia Seguine 'Sublime'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia Seguine 'Sublime'
Colour: Vibrant green leaves with white markings.
Unique Features: Beautiful variegation with a fresh, vibrant look. Every leaf has unique markings. Bright indirect light gives you more white in the centre of the leaves
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Vesuvius'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Vesuvius'
Colour: White and green variegation
Unique Features: Quick growing with bold unique variegation white, and green contrasting colours.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia Maculata 'Reflector'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia Maculata 'Reflector'
Colour: Reflective green leaves with light spots
Unique Features: Striking reflective leaf pattern. Very large Dieffenbachia variety with striking leaf patterns that almost look like camouflage.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Carina'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Carina'
Colour: Green with light green almost white accents, surrounded by spots, similar to a Dieffenbachia 'Delilah'.
Unique Features: Medium-sized leaves with a subtle variegation.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Compacta'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Compacta'
Colour: Dense green foliage, can come with spots or white centres like a 'Camilla'
Unique Features: Smaller variety ideal for limited spaces. Still gets big enough to be proud of, but won't outgrow most smaller spaces. Perfect for a shelf.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Delilah'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Delilah'
Colour: Dark green leaves with large white centres similar to a Dieffenbachia 'Camilla' or a 'Honeydew' but with a few spots around the outside.
Unique Features: Broad leaves with a striking spotted pattern. Unique pattern and striking foliage.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Honeydew'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Honeydew'
Colour: Creamy white leaves with green edges, similar to a Dieffenbachia 'Camilla' or a 'Delilah'. Beautiful variety.
Unique Features: Leaves with a beautiful creamy white colouration.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Mary'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Mary'
Colour: Lime green leaves with white and green spots
Unique Features: Large leaves with prominent white spotting. Lime green colour with pale leaves. Extremely unique pattern with few spots and large patches of white. Very bright and white.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Sarah'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Sarah'
Colour: Green and white variegation. Very similar to Dieffenbachia 'Mary' but with more prominent spots and more contrast.
Unique Features: Striking variegation with unique patterns.
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Sparkle'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Sparkle'
Colour: Green with white patches and green spots, ranging from pale to white
Unique Features: Small leaves with a speckled pattern. Ranges from pale green to almost white. Stunning variety with unique foliage and a longer leaf than most varieties, except for Dieffenbachia 'Vesuvius'
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.Dieffenbachia 'Star Bright'
Latin Name: Dieffenbachia 'Star Bright'
Colour: Bright green with white patches, similar to Dieffenbachia 'Vesuvius' but with more green.
Unique Features: Leaves with a bright, star-like pattern. Longer leaves than most varieties, similar in appearance to Dieffenbachia 'Vesuvius'
Origin: Cultivar, no native range.
Dieffenbachia 'Tropic Snow'
10 Fun Facts About Dieffenbachia Plants
Historical Significance: Dieffenbachia was named after Joseph Dieffenbach, the head gardener at the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna during the 1830s. He is believed to have brought the plant to Europe from Brazil during the Austro-Brazilian expeditions (1817-1835)
Cultural Beliefs: In Brazil, it's believed that Dieffenbachia plants protect against negative energy and the evil eye. In Caribbean folklore, they are sometimes believed to bring protection and good luck to homes.
NASA Study: Dieffenbachia was included in NASA's Clean Air Study, which identified it as one of the best plants for removing indoor air pollutants
Medicinal Uses: In tropical America, the sap of Dieffenbachia 'Seguine' is used to treat warts and tumours, though we definitely don't recommend trying this one at home.
Flower Similarity: The flowers of Dieffenbachia are similar to those of the Peace Lily, though they are not as visually striking.
Air Purification: Dieffenbachia is known to remove xylene and toluene, two common household chemicals, from the air.
Variety: There are over 51 different species of Dieffenbachia, each with unique leaf patterns and colours. There's a variety to suit any home design.
Natural Habitat: In their natural habitat, Dieffenbachia plants can grow up to 10 feet (ca. 3 m) tall.
Indoor Growth: While they can reach impressive heights of up to 10ft (ca. 3 m) outdoors, indoor Dieffenbachia plants typically only grow to about 3ft (0.91 m) to 6ft (1.83 m) tall.
Pest and Disease Resistance: Dieffenbachia plants are relatively pest and disease-free, though they can occasionally be affected by mealy bugs and red spider mites
Dieffenbachia 'Camouflage'
Overview Of Dieffenbachia Plants
Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, these plants feature large, variegated leaves in shades of green, white, and yellow. Their ability to thrive in low-light conditions makes them particularly well-suited for indoor environments where natural light might be limited. Additionally, their lush, vibrant appearance can enhance the aesthetic of any room, bringing a touch of the tropics indoors. Their upright growth habit and impressive height potential also make them great for adding vertical interest to your space.
However, it's important to handle Dieffenbachia with care, as their sap can cause a burning sensation and swelling in the mouth and throat, earning the plant its nickname “Dumb Cane.” for the calcium oxalate crystals it contains. Keeping them out of reach of pets and children is crucial to avoid accidental ingestion or contact.
In summary, Dieffenbachia plants are a wonderful addition to any home, offering not only aesthetic appeal but also their air-purifying qualities. They have unique history, combined with cultural significance of Dieffenbachia as good luck charms, which make them a standout choice for an indoor jungle. Just remember to handle them with care to enjoy their beauty and benefits safely.
Edited & Fact Checked By: The Houseplant Shop
Article Published: 20th November 2024
About The Houseplant Shop:
Independent Houseplant Nursery
Horticultural Specialists
Managing Over 250 Houseplant Species Onsite
Over 15 Years Of Experience With Horticulture
As head of horticulture, Sarah manages the care and propagation of over 250 plant species at a commercial houseplant nursery. With over 15 years of experience in horticulture, specializing in houseplants, Sarah has extensive expertise in plant biology, soil science, and integrated pest management. She continually reviews and integrates the latest research into her plant care guides. Dedicated to educating others, Sarah has spent years diagnosing houseplant care issues and sharing her real-world experience. Her commitment to scientific accuracy and helping people diagnose plant health issues has established her as a trusted authority and expert in the field.
The Houseplant Shop is a dedicated houseplant nursery, growing all of their own stock from their botanical library of over 250 houseplant species. The nursery staff are horticultural experts who have dedicated their lives to cultivating and nurturing over 250 different species of houseplants, focusing on Aroids, tropical plants, and NOID collectables. All their plants are grown in house in Britain to be more environmentally friendly. The nursery is proud to have been featured by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) as a 100% peat free nursery.
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Written By: Sarah Brooks, Head of Horticulture
Article Received: 14th November 2024
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List of Article Updates:
20th December 2024: Minor UI updates
Author Bio:
Author: Sarah Brooks,
Head of Horticulture at The Houseplant Shop