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dieffenbachia

Scientific Name: Dieffenbachia

Family: Araceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Dieffenbachia: The Dumb Cane or Leopard Lily

Dieffenbachia, often called Dumb Cane or Leopard Lily, is a popular houseplant known for its large, colorful leaves. Despite its reputation, severe reactions are rare, but it's essential to be aware of its properties, especially when pets or children are around.

Considerations for Pets

  • Charming Dieffenbachia is mentioned as toxic to dogs and cats, with symptoms including drooling, oral pain, and inappetance.
  • All parts of the plant are considered poisonous.

Considerations for Children

  • Poisoning can occur if any part of the plant (leaves, stalk, or root) is ingested.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Dieffenbachia spp.
  • Common Names: Dumb Cane, Leopard Lily
  • Family: Araceae (Arum family)
  • Taxonomic Serial Number: 502056 (for Dieffenbachia seguine)
  • Synonyms: Dieffenbachia picta Schott, Dieffenbachia seguine (Jacq.) Schott

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the New World Tropics, ranging from Mexico and the West Indies to Central and South America.
  • Found as a cultivated indoor plant.
  • Native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Broad-leaved foliage plant with large, colorful leaves that are often variegated with white or yellow mottling.
  • Can grow as a small tree with a canelike stem or as a shrubby plant with multiple stems.
  • Dieffenbachia amoena can grow up to six feet tall.
  • Has an upright, bushy growth form.
  • Evergreen perennial.

Ecological Role

  • Dieffenbachia longispatha is pollinated by scarab beetles in tropical rain forests.

Cultivation and Care

  • Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Direct sunlight should be avoided.
  • Grows relatively easily as an indoor plant.
  • Prefers relatively high humidity but can tolerate some dryness.
  • Thrives in low to medium light and at room temperature.

Quirky Facts

  • The genus Dieffenbachia was named after Herr Joseph Dieffenbach, who was the head gardener and later administrator at the Royal Palace Gardens Schönbrunn in Vienna.

Further Information

  • HousePlant411.com provides care tips on watering, feeding, light, and propagation.