Dumb Cane

Dieffenbachia maculataAlso known as: Leopard Lily, Dieffenbachia

Dumb Cane is a popular tropical foliage plant with large, oblong leaves featuring striking patterns of cream, yellow, and green. Native to the Caribbean and South America, it grows up to 6 feet (1.8 m) indoors. Its name comes from the toxic sap that can cause temporary speechlessness if ingested.

Easy Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7-10 days, when top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry
Summer	Every 5-7 days
Fall	Every 10-14 days
Winter	Every 14-21 days

Likes consistently moist soil but not soggy. Yellow leaves often indicate overwatering.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	1-2 times per week
Summer	2-3 times per week
Fall	1-2 times per week
Winter	1-2 times per week

Appreciates humidity. Brown leaf edges may indicate low humidity.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2-3 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Every 2-3 weeks
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing needed

Regular feeding promotes larger, more colorful leaves.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed

Best Season: Spring or summer

Remove yellowing lower leaves. Wear gloves when handling - sap is highly irritating.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use rich, well-draining potting mix. Go up one pot size when roots crowd container.

Flowering

Season
Rarely indoors

Color
Green and white spathe

May produce aroid-type flowers similar to peace lily, but rare in indoor conditions.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil
Cane sections laid horizontally in soil
Air layering for larger plants

Common Problems

Yellow leaves: Usually overwatering
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or underwatering
Leggy growth: Insufficient light
Leaf curling: Cold drafts or underwatering

Pro Tips

All parts are toxic - keep away from children and pets
Wear gloves when handling to avoid sap irritation
Can become leggy - prune to maintain bushy shape
One of the best plants for low to medium light areas

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