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Dieffenbachia Care

There are many different species of Dieffenbachia, featuring many different interesting leaf patterns. Dieffenbachia are known for being a low-maintenance houseplant that will tolerate less-than-ideal conditions. They are a perfect choice for new or busy plant owners.

How to care for your Dieffenbachia

Use these instructions to care for a Dieffenbachia. This guide will tell you how to water a Dieffenbachia; its light, temperature, humidity preferences and any additional care it might need to help it grow.

Dieffenbachia

LIGHT

Your Dieffenbachia will do best in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate lower light environments, though growth will slow. Avoid direct sunlight which can burn the leaves.

WATER

Water your Dieffenbachia when the soil volume is 50-75% dry. Water thoroughly until it drips out the bottom of the pot, and remove excess water that accumulates in the saucer.

HUMIDITY

The Dieffenbachia does fine in average household humidity. It won’t mind an added boost in humidity during the drier months of winter.

TEMPERATURE

Your Dieffenbachia prefers temperatures between 60-80°F. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.

FOOD

Fertilize your Dieffenbachia once per month during the spring and summer with a general purpose houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Be sure the soil is damp; never apply fertilizer to dry soil.

TOXICITY

Dieffenbachia are considered to be toxic to pets and humans if ingested.

ADDITIONAL CARE

If you notice the tips or edges of your plant’s leaves are turning brown, it could be due to your tap water. You can prevent this by watering with filtered water or rainwater. Remove any yellow leaves to keep your plant strong and growing.

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What's a Dieffenbachia?

Botanical Classification: Dieffenbachia spp. 'Perfection Compacta'

About

Dieffenbachia are popular indoor plants for the home or office due to their regal appearance and the fact that they can grow between 3’ to 5’ indoors. They are very easy to care for, and if you run into any issues with over or under watering or lighting, it can rebound quickly when you course-correct on your care routine.

Native to Mexico, South America, and the West Indies, Dieffenbachia plants thrive in bright, indirect light, and can even adapt to fluorescent light, making them an office decoration hero. Just make sure to keep them away from children and pets as the leaves are mildly toxic!

Fun Fact

A common name for this plant is Leopard Lily, due to the distinctive striped pattern on Dieffenbachia leaves.

Pictured Left: Dieffenbachia

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