Japanese name: ディーフェンバキア Scientific name:Dieffenbachia
[Overview]
An evergreen perennial.
The stem stands upright and is somewhat fleshy.
The leaves are simple and alternate, and many have white to yellowish-white markings.
The leaf margins are entire.
The base of the leaf stalk forms a sheath.
It produces a spadix enclosed in a spathe.
[Cultivation]
Propagate by cuttings.
Care is needed because contact with the sap from the leaves and stems causes skin irritation.
It is safest to keep it at 10°C or above for overwintering.
It prefers well-drained soil.
From autumn to spring, place it in a sunny spot indoors; in summer, avoid direct sunlight and place it in partial shade.
Strong sunlight causes leaf scorch.
For potted plants, from spring to autumn water thoroughly when the soil surface dries, and keep it on the dry side in winter.
It is also good to mist the leaves with a sprayer.
During the growing season in the hot period, place slow-release fertilizer on the soil or give liquid fertilizer.
Pests include spider mites.
