About
A variable species of tropical evergreen perennial, up to 3m high, with upright, cane-like stems and broadly oval to oblong, glossy dark green leaves sparsely spotted with white.
About the genus
Dieffenbachia are evergreen perennials with large, ovate leaves which are usually attractively mottled with white or yellow; flowering spathes are seldom produced in cultivation
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright, filtered light with high humidity. In growth, water moderately and apply a balanced liquid feed monthly; mist daily to increase humidity. Water sparingly and provide full light in winter. See houseplant cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem tip cuttings or take stem sections, each with a growth bud, and lay flat on the surface of the compost at 25°C. Can also be propagated by air layering
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, especially on new growth
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free