Dieffenbachia, commonly known as dumbcane is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the family Araceae. It is native to the tropical regions and is widely cultivated as a houseplant due to its ability to tolerate low light conditions. Dieffenbachia plants are known for their attractive, large, shiny leaves, which are often variegated with white, yellow, or pale green. The plants can grow to be quite large, with some species reaching heights of up to 8 feet.
The variegated pattern of the leaves is created by the presence of a pigment called “chlorophyll,” which is responsible for photosynthesis and gives the leaves their green color. The white or yellow markings on the leaves are areas where the chlorophyll is either lacking or is present in very small amounts, resulting in the light-colored appearance of the foliage.
The name Dieffenbachia was given to the genus by Heinrich Wilhelm Schott the director of the Botanical Gardens in Vienna to honor the head gardener Joseph Dieffenbach (1796–1863). Schott was a botanist well known for his extensive work on the aroids. The plant’s name derives from its extremely irritating sap, which when ingested, burns the soft tissues of the mouth and throat and may paralyze the vocal cords.
Dieffenbachia plants are often grown in pots or containers and placed in a sunny room, but they can also be grown outdoors in warmer climates. They are suitable for growing in a variety of settings, including homes, offices, and public spaces, as long as they are kept out of reach of pets and children due to their toxicity. They can also be grown on their own or in combination with other houseplants to create a lush, tropical effect.
Dumbcane plants are commonly misidentified as many are hybrids. The plants are also sometimes called “tropical sunrise,” “exotica,” or “tropic snow,” due to the colorful variegation of their leaves. In this article, I’ll cover some of the most common types of Dieffenbachia plants so that you can make an informed selection for your space.
List of Dieffenbachia Plant Varieties
- Dieffenbachia “Camille”
- Dieffenbachia maculata
- Dieffenbachia “Hilo”
- Dieffenbachia ‘Compacta’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Paradise’
- Dieffenbachia maculata “Tropical Tiki”
- Dieffenbachia ‘Aurora’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Camouflage’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Seguine’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Carina’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Delilah’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Honeydew’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Mary’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Snow’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Sarah’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Sparkle’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Star bright’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Marianne’
- Dieffenbachia ‘White Etna’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Sublime’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Rain’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Sterling’
- Dieffenbachia ‘Daguensis variagated’
Description And Identifying Characteristics
Dieffenbachia “Camille”
Dieffenbachia “Camille” is the most common variety and features large, glossy leaves that are variegated in other words, attractively marked with dark green at the edges, fading to white in the center. The leaves are oval or lance-shaped and are attached to long, sturdy stems. Another amazing thing about the leaves is that they are generally large, measuring about 8-16 inches long and 3-8 inches wide, although they can grow much larger in places with favorable conditions.
Actually, the coloration of the leaves can vary somewhat, with some plants having more white than green and others having more green than white. The leaves of the Dieffenbachia “Camille” plant are indeed very attractive and will always appear beautiful in any room or place in which they are grown.
Dieffenbachia maculata
Dieffenbachia maculata, also known as spotted dumb cane, is native to South and Central America. It is an upright, herbaceous perennial that can grow to be quite large, with a mature size of up to 6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. You can use this plant to add a tropical touch or feel to patios, balconies and other outdoor spaces.
The leaves of Dieffenbachia maculata are large, glossy and dark green in color, usually patterned with white or yellow spots or streaks on the surface. The leaves can be oblong or oval in shape and are arranged alternately on the stem of the plant. They are often approximately 6-12 inches long and 3-6 inches wide. They can also be slightly curved and may have a slightly wavy or undulating margin. When grown outdoors, this plant should be protected from direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to yellow or scorch.
Dieffenbachia “Hilo”
Well, Dieffenbachia “Hilo” also referred to as dumb cane ‘reflector’ is a compact cultivar of Dieffenbachia and may not grow to be as large as some other varieties. In many places it is grown as a houseplant, it often reaches heights of between 2-4 feet. The plant features glossy green leaves that are splattered with green. In other words, it has a lime green variegation which is mixed in between with dark green color.
Generally, leaves are large and oval-shaped in shape, with smooth margins and pointed tips. In many plants I have come across, the dark-green markings on the leaves are often variegated or splattered in pattern, making the plant to have a unique and decorative appearance. Another thing is that, the leaves of this plant are arranged irregular pattern on the stem and can grow up to 2 feet long and 1 foot wide in some cases. Nevertheless, size and shape of the leaves can vary depending on the size of the plant and the conditions in which it is grown.
Dieffenbachia ‘Compacta’
The Dieffenbachia ‘Compacta’ is known for its smaller size and compact growth habit compared to other cultivars and species of Dieffenbachia. In most cases, this cultivar reaches a height of between 2-4 feet tall when grown as a houseplant, although it can potentially grow taller when grown outdoors in warm and subtropical climates. Those who have ever grown this plant will tell you that, it has a relatively slow growth rate and may take several years to reach its full maturity.
The leaves of the Dieffenbachia ‘Compacta’ are relatively large and glossy, measuring somewhere around 6-12 inches in length and 3-6 inches in width. They are oval to oblong in shape and feature dark green color with lighter green or cream-colored splotches or patterns. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern, with new leaves emerging from the center of the plant.
Dieffenbachia ‘Paradise’
Dieffenbachia ‘Paradise’ also referred to as dieffenbachia amoena, has large, glossy green leaves with creamy white or yellow streaks running through them. Just like other varieties of Dieffenbachia, the leaves are somehow oblong or oval in shape and can grow up to 16 inches in length. The leaves are attached to thick, fleshy stems and are arranged in a spiral pattern on the plant.
Dieffenbachia ‘Paradise’ plant can surely be of variable size depending on the size of the pot it is grown in and the care it receives. In other words, Dieffenbachia ‘paradise’ plants are medium to large in size, with some specimens reaching heights of up to 6 feet or more. When grown in a pot, the size of the plant may be more limited to the size of the pot and the available root expansion space.
Dieffenbachia maculata “Tropical Tiki”
Dieffenbachia maculata “Tropical Tiki” is a moderate to large-sized plant, and one of the most beautiful in the dieffenbachia family. The leaves are typically dark green in color, mottled with lighter green, cream-white or yellow splotches. The overall appearance of the leaves can somewhat vary, with some plants having more white than green and others having more green than white.
These plants are usually characterized by upright growth habit and in most cases, they reach a height of 2 to 5 feet and a width of about 3 feet when grown in a planter. When growing Dieffenbachia maculate ‘’Tropical Tiki’’ plants indoors, it is important to protect these plants from direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to become scorched or faded.
Dieffenbachia Aurora
Dieffenbachia aurora is one among the largest dieffenbachia plants. The canes sport large, oblong green leaves that are variegated with white or cream markings. The good thing about this vibrant plant is that it can grow up to 5 feet when grown outdoors, though houseplants average about 3 feet in height. Like other members of the Dieffenbachia family, it is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a range of indoor conditions.
Dieffenbachia ‘Camouflage’
Dieffenbachia ‘Camouflage’ plants are vigorously growing plants with a single stem capable of branching out into several smaller stems, each bearing a cluster of leaves. The leaves of the Dieffenbachia ‘Camouflage’ are large and broad, with a glossy and somehow leathery texture. They actually can measure around 8-12 inches in length and 2-5 inches wide, and can be dark green in color with creamy yellow or white splashes and spots.
In general, Dieffenbachia ‘Camouflage’ plants can reach heights of 2-6 feet or more when grown in a pot while at the same time spreading up to 3-4 feet wide. The plants can be described to be medium to large-sized and thus they will excellently fit in any medium or large-sized rooms or spaces.
Dieffenbachia ‘Seguine’
Dieffenbachia ‘Seguine’ has large, glossy green leaves that are decorated with cream-colored spots or streaks. The leaves grow from the base of the plant on long stems and can reach lengths of up to 2 feet and about 8 inches wide. The leaves can be oval or oblong in shape with smooth and wavy edges. The leaves of this plant are also known to possess ability to purify the air.
Dieffenbachia ‘Seguine’ can vigorously grow to heights of about 3 to 6 feet with multiple stems when grown in places with tropical-like conditions. People who have grown this plant say that it is a fast-growing plant, it takes less than 3 years for it to reach its full size. The size of the plant can be controlled by pruning the stems and leaves as needed to keep it at the desired size.
Dieffenbachia ‘Carina’
Dieffenbachia ‘Carina’ is indeed a beautiful compact plant with a mounding growth habit. This plant grows faster and reaches a height of approximately 36 inches and a spread of up to 18 inches when grown in a planter or container. When grown outdoors especially in tropical climates, it can grow vigorously, become larger in size, with a spread of up to 3 feet and a height of up to 5 feet.
The leaves of Dieffenbachia ‘Carina’ are amazingly large and dark-green, with variegation in shades of cream. They are relatively large, oblong in shape with pointed tips and a smooth, waxy texture. Well, the leaves as is with the leaves of other dieffenbachia plants are arranged in a rosette pattern, with new leaves emerging from the center of the plant.
Dieffenbachia ‘Delilah’
Dieffenbachia ‘Delilah’ plants tend to be medium to large in size, reaching a height of 1 to 3 feet and a width of up to 2 feet when grown in a planter. They still can grow much larger especially when grown in a well-cared garden bed, some plants can even surprisingly reach heights of up to 6 feet.
The leaves of this plant are actually the large with a glossy texture. They are usually dark green in color, with white or yellow spots and streaks scattered throughout. The spots and streaks can vary in size and shape, and may be more or less prominent depending on the age of the plant and the amount of light it receives.
Dieffenbachia ‘Honeydew’
Dieffenbachia Honeydew is a larger dieffenbachia variety with fantastic looking leaves that make it stand out among the dieffenbachias. The leaves of Dieffenbachia with glossy leaves measuring about 14 inches in length and 8 inches in width. They are usually golden or cream-yellow in color with dark-green color along the margin or edges. The leaves are typically held on long, slender stems that emerge from the base of the plant.
These leaves are highly susceptible to damage or sunburns from direct sunlight and therefore it is important to provide the plant with indirect or filtered light when growing them in any setting. This Dieffenbachia variety when grown in planters or containers can be placed on a tabletop, desk, bathroom or shelf in a living room, bedroom, or other interior spaces.
Dieffenbachia ‘Mary’
The leaves of Dieffenbachia ‘Mary’ are large with a glossy green color and distinctive white or yellow markings. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem of the plant and held on long slender petioles. When it comes to their size, they can be approximately 6 to 12 inches long and 3 to 6 inches wide.
Dieffenbachia ‘Mary’ is a relatively medium-sized plant that can grows to heights of about 2 to 4 feet and a width of 1 to 2 feet. The size of the plant can vary depending on the size of the pot it is grown in, as well as the amount of care it receives. If the plant is given enough space to grow and is provided with adequate care, it can reach its full size and may even produce additional offsets or “pups” that can be separated and grown into new plants.
Dieffenbachia ‘Snow’
Dieffenbachia “Snow” is a medium to large-sized variety that can averagely reach heights of between 4 to 6 feet with a spread of approximately 3-4 feet wide. It definitely has an upright, cane-like stems with large leaves that are oblong in shape, and that grow in an alternating pattern along the stem. It is actually a fast-growing plant and will need to be repotted probably every year as it outgrows its current planter.
The leaves of Dieffenbachia “Snow” are quite striking, with their bright green color and contrasting white or pale green splotches. They are also quite glossy, giving the plant a shiny, attractive appearance. The size of the leaves can vary, but they will always be within the range of 6-12 inches long and 3-6 inches wide. The leaves are known to easily accumulate dirt and dusty on their surface and therefore when growing them, you will from time to time be required to wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth.
Dieffenbachia ‘Sarah’
Dieffenbachia ‘Sarah’ variety can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and almost same size wide. Actually, the plant can be of different sizer depending on the growing conditions and the care it receives. In optimal conditions, Dieffenbachia ‘Sarah’ can reach its full potential in terms of size and growth.
Dieffenbachia ‘Sarah’ has relatively large, elliptical leaves with a glossy finish and reaching up to 12 inches in length and 6-8 inches in width. The leaves are generally light green in color with white variegation on the surface and along the veins. The white variegation creates a striking contrast against the green splotches and gives the plant a distinctive appearance.
Dieffenbachia ‘Sparkle’
The Dieffenbachia ‘Sparkle’ is a rare variety with a compact, upright growth habit. It grows to be quite large, with mature specimens reaching heights of up to 6 feet or more. It is a slow-growing species, but it can grow quite quickly under optimal conditions. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate low light conditions, but it should be protected from direct sunlight, as its leaves can be damaged by strong sun rays.
The leaves of the Dieffenbachia ‘Sparkle’ plant are averagely large, variegated with shades of green, yellow, and white. They have a distinctive pattern on their surface, with pale yellow or cream-colored splotches and streaks on a background of dark green. The leaves are slightly leathery in texture with smooth margins and an overall glossy finish on the surface.
Dieffenbachia ‘Star bright’
The leaves of this dieffenbachia variety are relatively large, with some plants having leaves that are up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide. The size of the leaves can also be affected by factors such as the amount of light the plant receives and the availability of water and nutrients.
The leaves are oblong in shape and somehow glossy with variegated pattern of bright yellow and green. The leaves of the Dieffenbachia ‘Star Bright’ are slightly thicker and sturdy than those of some other cultivars, which makes them less prone to damage.
When grown as houseplants, they will obviously reach a more modest size, that is, growing in ranges of between 3-4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. The size of the plant can be controlled by trimming off excess growth as needed and by pruning the plant back to shape it as desired.
Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Marianne’
The leaves of the Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Marianne’ plant are elliptical with a glossy surface. They are overly variegated with shades of green, yellow and white, and have a distinctive pattern that is unique to this cultivar.
The leaves are attached to the stem of the plant via a long, narrow petiole, or leaf stem. They are arranged alternately along the stem, and can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. When grown indoors, these plants tend to be smaller, with mature plants typically reaching heights of 2-3 feet.
Dieffenbachia ‘White Etna’
Dieffenbachia ‘White Etna’ has an upright, bushy growth habit and during spring and summer produces small, white flowers that are particularly not showy or have any ornamental significance. The leaves of Dieffenbachia ‘White Etna’ are usually similar in appearance to most of the Dieffenbachias, that’s to say, they are large and glossy, pale green in color with white or light green splotches or streaks.
When growing the plant inside the house, a spot near an east- or west-facing window is the best thing you can do, as long as the plant is not too close to the glass and is protected from drafts.
Dieffenbachia ‘Sublime’
Dieffenbachia ‘Sublime’ is a large plant growing approximately between 3-7 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide especially when grown in planter. However, it is also possible to keep it smaller by pruning the stems and leaves regularly and by growing it in a smaller container. When grown in a larger container or in the ground, it can potentially reach even larger sizes.
The leaves of Dieffenbachia ‘Sublime’ are large and oblong in shape, with a glossy, dark green color. They are typically about 8-12 inches long and 4-6 inches wide, and are borne on long, sturdy stems. The most striking feature of this plant is the white variegation on the leaves, which forms a pattern of stripes or spots. This variegation is what gives the plant its name, as it is considered to be very attractive and “sublime.” The leaves of Dieffenbachia ‘Sublime’ also have a leathery texture, which gives them a strong, durable feel.
Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Rain’
Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Rain’ is a versatile and generally a fast-growing variety of Dieffenbachia. One great thing about Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Rain’ leaves is their ability to absorb toxins from the air. Most of the plants have distinctive dark green leaves that are variegated combination of either green and white or green and yellow.
Dieffenbachia ‘Tropic Rain’ plants will grow up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide, though the size of the plant will depend on few things here and there, including the size of the planter it is grown in, the amount of light and water it receives, and more importantly the overall health of the plant.
Dieffenbachia ‘Sterling’
Dieffenbachia ”Sterling” is quite different in terms of appearance to other dieffenbachia plants, its foliage is large and particularly attractive measuring between 6 to 14 inches long and approximately 4-8 inches wide depending on the size of the plant. The dark-green leaves are oblong or oval with a creamy or pure white midrib and veins. The plant has a compact, upright, spreading habit, growing up to 3 or 4 feet tall and somewhere around 3 feet wide.
When growing this plant, it is understandably a good idea to choose a planter or container that is more than 12 inches wider in diameter and repot the plant every 2-3 years or as the need may arise.
Dieffenbachia ”daguensis aurea”
The dieffenbachia daguensis aurea sometimes referred to as Dieffenbachia ”Big Ben” is quite a unique variety featuring splotches in different colors other than the prominent foliage color. The leaves have a glossy or waxy appearance with either bigger portion or one side of the leaf being splotched in one color. Some plants may feature even distribution of large portions of splotches in colors of yellow, green, cream and pure white. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches in length and the plant has a compact bushy growth habit. It is a moderate growing plant and will relatively take time to reach its full size of 4 feet. When grown in the flowerbed or outside the house in areas with tropical climate, the plant can reach a larger size, up to 6 feet in height.
Other Dieffenbachia Plant Varieties
Other varieties of dieffenbachia plant that you need to have a look at, include:
- Dieffenbachia ‘Panther’
- Dieffenbachia amoena “Tropic Snow”
- Dieffenbachia ‘Triumph’
- Dieffenbachia Rebecca
- Dieffenbachia Delilah