Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) FAQ

Problem
My Dieffenbachia plants are tall and falling over. What’s wrong?

Answer
Typically Dumb Cane will get fuller before taller. Your plants may not be receiving enough light and therefore reaching. Move them closer to a window.


Problem
My Dieffenbachia’s leaves are yellowing.

Answer
Yellowing leaves is a fairly common problem, not only with Dumb Cane plants but many houseplants in general. Yellowing leaves can also signal one many potentials problems. Sometimes the yellowing of the foliage is a signal that the plant is not receiving enough light or water. On the opposite side of things, yellowing leaves could simply mean the plant is shedding older foliage.


Problem
My Dieffenbachia foliage is turning yellow and drooping. What’s wrong?

Answer
The yellowing of the leaves and drooping may mean you are over / under watering your plant. Before making that assumption though, check the undersides of the leaves for some type of pests. Sometime spider mites can cause these symptoms. If you do see tiny red spots or some other sort of houseplant pest, spray the entire plant twice per day with a soapy dishwater detergent.


Problem
Can Dieffenbachia be propagated?

Answer
Yes. if your Dumb Cane plant has fallen over or continues to fall over, you can split it easily. This houseplant easily roots itself by simply placing it in water until iiiDieffenbachia and stuck it in water with rocks on the bottom. The plant then rooted and was ready to go.


Problem
My Dumb Cane plants has grown “pods”. What are they?

Answer
The pods are Dieffenbachia’s flower. They look almost like a bean. Dumb Cane’s typically do not flower often. I personally never had mine flower (unfortunately), however readers have shared their experiences. For additional information please see http://plantsarethestrangestpeople.blogspot.com/2008/11/random-plant-event-special.html


Problem
The foliage on my Dumb Cane plant is no longer a beautiful green and it has lost its white centers. What can I do to get the markings back on my Dieffenbachia?

Answer
Typically houseplants will lose some of their color luster because they are not receiving enough light. Try moving the plant to an area closer to a window that receives more light each day.

Looking for more advice and tips on caring for this houseplant? Be sure to read the complete Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) Plant Care Guide.