A lush, upright foliage plant with large leaves marbled in cream and green. Striking and easy, but its sap is irritating, so handle with care around pets and children.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 1.2 m tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Dumb Cane
Botanically, Dieffenbachia seguine is an moderate-growing indoor plant in the Araceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall at maturity, with evergreen and variegated foliage.
Where to grow Dumb Cane
Dumb Cane suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Dumb Cane provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Dumb Cane is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Dumb Cane in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Dumb Cane in the garden
Dumb Cane earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Dumb Cane with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Dumb Cane
Plant Sale lists Dumb Cane as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.