Dieffenbachia amoena

Dumb cane

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Dumb caneDieffenbachia

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical Americas (Central and South America)

usdaZones

10–12 (grown as indoor plant elsewhere)

companionPlants

Philodendron, Aglaonema, Spathiphyllum

culturalUses

Popular ornamental houseplant for its decorative foliage; no significant traditional uses due to toxicity.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; tolerates lower light but growth slows.

WateringWater when top inch of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering.

SoilWell-draining, peat-based potting mix.

FertilizerFeed monthly during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer.

HumidityPrefers high humidity but adapts to average indoor levels.

TemperatureThrives between 18–24°C (65–75°F); avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C (60°F).

HabitEvergreen perennial with upright, cane-like stems and large, patterned leaves.

Mature Size1.2–1.8 m (4–6 ft) tall indoors.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingRarely flowers indoors; inflorescence is a typical arum spadix/spathe.

DormancyMay slow growth in winter but is not truly dormant.

MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering

DifficultyEasy to moderate

Best SeasonSpring or early summer

PruningRemove damaged or yellowing leaves; cut back leggy stems.

RepottingEvery 2–3 years or when root-bound.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs; root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityHighly toxic if ingested (contains calcium oxalate crystals); irritating to pets and humans.

No public plants yet.