Dieffenbachia is a genus of plant with big bouncy leaves painted with cream and green coloration making for beautiful indoor foliage. A simple to care for plant that thrives in medium light requiring frequent waters or evenly moist soil, but will tolerate neglect. So if you forget to water, you might get a brown leaf or two, but no harm no foul. Dieffenbachia is a great plant for beginners.
This summer, I came across a sad dieffenbachia on the clearance shelf at my local hardware store and felt compelled to rescue it for a dollar. It took a little clean up and some pruning, new soil and a shiny new pot and this plant began to flourish almost instantly. I have to admit, there is something satisfying about removing dead leaves.
Like most plant lovers, I am a leaf junkie. Nothing excites me more than the formation of a new leaf. As dieffenbachia grows, new leaves will unfurl from the top of the cane to reveal wonderful variegated leaves. This plant has many different species with varying leaf patterns and colors. It grows mostly upright, which makes it perfect for breaking up a tall wall or empty shelf.
Dieffenbachia Care:
- Medium to bright light
- Evenly moist soil. Water about every 1.5 to 2 weeks depending on your climate. Water more in summer
- Fertilize in spring at beginning of growing season
- Propagate by placing 4-6 inch stem cuttings in water
- May be poisonous
Stick with SurburbanSill for more plant rescues and houseplant love.
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