CHARACTERISTICS: The leaves
break easily, so high traffic areas are not recommended. These plants are
also called "dumb canes" because eating them irritates the throat and vocal
cords. They are considered poisonous to small children and animals if eaten
in quantity. They are grown in many different varieties.
PRUNING: Foliage and stalk
of the Dieffenbachia need full sun in order to keep the plant from becoming
top heavy and in need support. Most of the time these plants are tied up
and hung up like puppets. They must be trained to support themselves. Cut
cane down to visually appealing level or pull out the very center new growth.
Be aware if all foliage is removed, the plant will use less water, so be
sure and check the soil before watering. A healthy plant will soon put
out new growth where it has been topped out. The top section of the plant
that the foliage is on can either be rooted in the pot the original plant
is in, or rooted in water.