This genus is commonly called dumb cane, because chewing on it will produce swelling and irritation of the mouth and tongue. Death is possible if swellings cause blockage of the throat air passages. These tropical American members of the Aroid family are very tolerant of average home conditions. (keep high, away from children. Put in big pot around pets.) Most have attractive large leaves which have speckles or stripes of green, yellow or white.
An all-purpose soil, which is kept evenly moist (not soggy), and an east or west window are fine. Dieffenbachias will occasionally produce flowers similar to those of the wild Jack-in-the-pulpit. Propagation is by air-layering and the remaining stem can be cut into sections to be propagated as bud or eye cuttings in moist sand.
Many fine species are available and include (Dieffenbachia Amoena,) D. Bowmannii, D. Manuculata, D. Seguine.
Care To Plant 