|
|
Dumb Cane
The Plant: A striking foliage plant, its large leaves variously
marked with gold and green with a darker green midrib and margin. Why
should it have the common name ‘Dumb Cane’? The Dieffenbachia is a
poisonous plant and apparently the sap, if it gets in your mouth, can
make you unable to speak for some time! It swells the sensory organs in
the mouth
|
|
Its needs:
The Dumb Cane prefers light shade, and to be grown in a potting mix
rich in organic matter, and well-draining. Warmth and humidity
essential.
 |
Care:
Water weekly and feed every 3-4 weeks once new
growth has become firm. Reduce watering in winter. Protect from
winter chill. Mist spray the leaves in summer, and wipe
carefully with a damp cloth if dusty. Use a cane to support the
plant as it grows taller. If Dieffenbachia becomes over tall or
too straggly cut back main stem and re-pot the 'cutting' in
sandy mix. This is best done whilst wearing rubber gloves to
avoid contact with the sap. Watch for scale insect pest and red
spider mite. |
Good for:
The Dumb Cane makes an excellent, showy foliage plant,
an ideal stand-alone feature. Do not place it within reach of children
and warn adults regarding its poisonous sap, (picking up the odd fallen
leaf could result in unintentional contact with the sap).
Back to A-Z of
Houseplants |
