Dieffenbachia

Description

The most widespread species is Dieffenbachia picta, with large oblong leaves spotted with yellow, which fan out from a fleshy stem.

Cultivation

As regards position, these plants require diffused light and dislike direct sunlight. They also fear draughts. Room temperature must be above 12°. All-purpose compost is suitable; Dieffenbachia can also be grown in hydroculture. Watering should be abundant in summer and decidedly moderate during the dormant period; standing water must always be avoided. Misting the leaves is excellent. Monthly feeding is recommended, suspended only between November and March to give the plants some rest. Repotting should be done every two years, choosing a pot only slightly larger in diameter than the previous one.

Propagation

Dieffenbachia is propagated by cutting off the top of the plant and setting it to root in a container filled with water. Once the roots have appeared, cultivation can continue in hydroculture or in soil.