The Awesome Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia showing bloom
I love my house plants and couldn’t imagine living with out them. On of my favorites is the Dieffenbachia, it is also referred to as ‘Dumb Cane’ or ‘Mother-in-Law Plant’. Dieffenbachia is a genus of tropical plants in the family Araceae noted for their patterned leaves. There are many different varieties of this plant and they all grow to different sizes and shapes. I haven’t seen one that isn’t absolutely beautiful.
I just found out something about my Dieffenbachia that I did not know. This plant has been in my home off and on for years and for the first time ever I have one that is beginning to bloom! I couldn’t believe it. Imagine my surprise. 
The blooms have not developed completely yet so as of right now I don’t know what they will look like or whether or not it will have a fragrance. So on that one I’ll have to get back with you.
Dieffenbachia I bring out in the summer
Dieffenbachia is a really easy plant to grow and does well in most types of light. They like a bright room with diffused light but can also tolerate slightly lower reflective light. They need high humidity so try to keep them misted often or put them on a humidity tray. If you find a place they do well in your home leave them there as they don’t like to be moved around often. Keep them out of a draft and you will have much success growing this plant. If you are like me during the summer month I move most of my house plants outside into shady parts of the yard. They do extremely well here where we live as the climate is very humid. If you do this make sure that you keep them out of the direct sun light as they will burn very quickly.
The nick name ‘Dumb Cane’ comes from the ability of the plant to cause paralysis from the toxicity of the milky white substance that the plant excretes when the leaves and stems are cut or crushed. The affliction is to the mouth and throat including the larynx, causing swelling of the tongue and throat making it difficult for a person to speak. It can also affect dogs and cats. We have parrots and I would assume they would be in danger as well. Make sure to keep your pets away from this plant as it could cause serious risk to their health. The milky substance can have a burning sensation on the skin as well, so make sure you wash after handling.
All and all, Dieffenbachia is an awesome plant with stunning leaf colorization that range from spotted to almost complete leaf saturation of creams, yellows, and whites. Some are small, while others can grow up to 5 feet plus. Adding them to your home brings a soothing and homey feeling that’s hard to beat.
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