Dumb Cane
Dieffenbachia seguine
Also known as
Dumbplant, Mother-In-Law-Plant, Dumb cane
Starr 061212-2331 Dieffenbachia seguine by Forest & Kim Starr (CC BY 3.0)
Partial Shade
Easy care
Light watering
Tender
H1a
RHS hardiness
15°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
4m | Max | 2m |
2m | Min | 50cm |
5 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
More images of Dumb Cane
Dumb Cane Overview
Dieffenbachia seguine is an evergreen perennial species in the Araceae family. It produces large, oval leaves which are attractively marked with green and white patterning. Also known as Dumb Cane, this references the plant's poisoning effect, which if ingested, can cause a temporary inability to speak. Long periods of bright sunlight may damage the foliage, this plant does best in part shade, having originated from tropical forest habitats in North and South America and the West Indies. Flowers borne on erect spikes, are surrounded by cream-green spathes and may appear at any time of year. However, these are rarely seen in cultivation.
Common problems with Dumb Cane
How to propagate Dumb Cane
Cuttings
Propagate from root cuttings or stem cuttings laid horizontally in compost.
Special features of Dumb Cane
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Dumb Cane
Grown for their foliage.