Dieffenbachia, better known as Dumb Cane, is a bold tropical houseplant grown for its large, glossy leaves splashed with green and creamy white variegation. It is an easy, fast-growing choice for a living room, office or hallway, and tolerates a wide range of indoor light, including spots that get less sun.

Left to grow on, it develops an upright, bushy shape with broad decorative foliage that makes a strong impression in a bright corner. It likes consistently warm conditions and some humidity, so it is happiest away from cold windowsills and draughts, and it benefits from an occasional misting or a spot near a humidifier.

Each plant is supplied well rooted in its pot and ready to grow on. Position it in bright, indirect light to medium light for the best leaf colour, and let the top few centimetres of compost dry out between waterings, watering less in winter.

Dieffenbachia is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or eaten, and the RHS lists it as a skin and eye irritant too. The sap is also the source of its common name, as it can cause painful swelling of the mouth and throat if chewed, so gloves are worth wearing when handling or taking cuttings.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Dumb Cane
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Approx. 60-120cm tall and 40-80cm wide (variety dependent)
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy evergreen
• Perfect For: Living rooms, offices and bright hallways
• Foliage: Large, variegated leaves in green and cream
• Planting Position: Bright indirect light to medium light; tolerates lower light levels
• Soil Type: Well-draining houseplant compost
• Hardiness: Not frost hardy; an indoor plant only, best kept above 15°C
• Maintenance: Low; allow compost to dry between waterings and feed occasionally in the growing season
• Type: Evergreen tropical houseplant