Dumb cane 'Exotica' Dieffenbachia 'Exotica' (v)
ABOUT
'Exotica' is a shrubby evergreen perennial with ovate dark green leaves up to 10 inches long and have marbled coloration.
The plant reaches 3.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Araceae
Synonyms
Dumb cane, Leopard lily
Common names
Dieffenbachia seguine 'Exotica'
ToxicityTo humans
The cells of the dieffenbachia plant contain needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause a temporary burning feelings and erythema when chewing the leaf. In rare cases, swelling of tissue exposed to the plant has been reported.
In children, contact with dieffenbachia (usually by chewing) can cause many unpleasant symptoms, including severe numbness, oral irritation, profuse salivation, and localized swelling.
In most cases, symptoms are mild and not life-threatening.To pets
ccording to the ASPCA, dieffenbachia is toxic to both cats and dogs. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals and a proteolytic enzyme that can cause irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive salivation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in animals.
In most cases, symptoms are mild and not life-threatening.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green with white
Height
Up to 3 feet
Spread
Up to 2 feet
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South America
Benefits
General BenefitsThis plant is easy to care for and suitable for dark rooms. It is one of the best low-maintenance indoor plants that can survive in full or partial shade;
An excellent ornamental plant;
Improves indoor air quality;
Best plant to absorb formaldehyde, xylenes and toluene.
Medical PropertiesIts sap is used by some peoples as an antidote (irritant) for snake bites, and for the external treatment of rheumatism and gout. It is also used to treat tumors and warts.
However, the plant is best known for its poisonous properties. Dumb cane is used to poison rats and cockroaches and to make poison for arrows. Therefore, do not use this plant in your treatment without consulting your doctor.
Air-purifying QualitiesDumb cane is on the list of plants from the NASA Clean Air Study. This houseplant can reduce toxic compounds such as formaldehyde, xylene and toluene.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiAccording to Feng Shui, dieffenbachia is best placed in the northeastern part of the house.
Dumb cane is great for the office. It will have a favorable effect on business negotiations and mental activity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCANCER and LEO
In astrological terms, diffenbahia is suitable for Cancers and Leos. Brings them good luck and sets them up for work.
Plant SymbolismIt symbolizes good luck, richness and wealth.
WaterModerate but frequent watering is required from March to September. If the temperature is too high, water more often - once every 2 to 3 days.
From October to February, water less: once every 4 - 5 days.
Dumb cane can tolerate a short period of drought, but excessive watering is not tolerated at all and may die.
LightA shade-tolerant plant. Avoid direct sunlight on Dumb cane.
TemperatureThe best temperature is between 65° F to 80° F, but not less then 60° F.
Keep Dumb cane from cold drafts and cold conditions in general.
PruningTo keep the 'Exotica' in its impressive appearance, it is necessary to get rid of damaged and diseased leaves. Pruning is also necessary if Dieffenbachia grows too fast, which also affects the appearance of the plant. Always wear gloves when pruning, as the sap of the plant is poisonous. The best time for pruning is early spring.
CleaningOnce a month
SoilDifferent variations with a pH of 5.5 are possible. For example, a mixture of sod and leaf soil with peat and manure in a 2:2:1:1 ratio.
A ready-made soil mixture called "For Diffenbahia" is also good.
RepottingRepot Dumb cane every 1 to 3 years in the spring as needed. Rubber gloves should be worn when transplanting, as the sap of the plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritation.
Repotting is necessary when the root system fills the entire pot.
With each transplant, the pot should be 4 inches larger than the previous pot. If the plant has become too large, it can be divided.
Humidity & MistingDumb cane prefers high humidity.
To increase the humidity level, you can mist the plant regularly or place a humidifier, moist moss or pebbles aroud the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
All year round
Outdoor
Only in a natural habitat. Does not tolerate temperature extremes and cold air.
Hardiness zone
11 - 12 USDA
Life cycleRarely do flower growers manage to create such ideal conditions for the capricious Dumb cane that it blooms. But those who are particularly diligent can get lucky and in April or May they will see a creamy green cob flower emerge from a leaf axil.
PropogationPropogation time
May - September
By CUTTINGS:
Carefully remove the cuttings from the mother plant, ensuring that there is a node. Allow the wound to dry slightly, place it on the soil or in water and wait for roots to develop.
Place the container with the cuttings in a warm place (70 - 75° F) away
This can take anywhere from a week to several months.
Be sure to wear gloves because the juice of the plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritation.
PestsSpider mite, Diaspididae, Thrips, Mealybug, Aphid
DiseasesRoot Rot
