Dieffenbachia Dieffenbachia seguine
At a glance
- Light
- Medium indirect
- 5000–15000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–10 days
- Top 2-3cm of soil
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- Temperature
- 18–27°C
- Ideal 21–24°C
- Soil pH
- 6–7
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 180 cm tall
- 90 cm wide
- Native to
- Brazil, Caribbean, Central America
- Growth
- Moderate
- Upright
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Dieffenbachia based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
Diagnose a problem
Click an issue to see causes and fixes for Dieffenbachia.
Or use Plant Doctor — AI-powered diagnostic that picks the top 3 most likely causes with family-specific reasoning and step-by-step fixes (photo upload coming soon).
Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Dieffenbachia Dieffenbachia seguine | Chinese Evergreen Aglaonema commutatum | Monstera Monstera deliciosa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Medium indirect | Medium indirect | Bright indirect |
| Water | 7–10 days | 7–10 days | 7–10 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| Mature size | 180 cm | 90 cm | 300 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Dieffenbachia prefers medium indirect (5000–15000 lux) . Tolerates low light but grows leggy; bright indirect keeps the variegation crisp
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Dieffenbachia every 7– 10 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2-3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Dieffenbachia
How often should I water Dieffenbachia?
Water Dieffenbachia every 7–10 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2-3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Dieffenbachia need?
Dieffenbachia prefers medium indirect (5000–15000 lux). Tolerates low light but grows leggy; bright indirect keeps the variegation crisp
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to cats?
Dieffenbachia is toxic to cats (severe severity). Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (high concentration), proteolytic enzymes. Common symptoms: intense oral burning, excessive drooling, severe vomiting, difficulty swallowing, swelling of throat (can block breathing in severe cases).
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to dogs?
Dieffenbachia is toxic to dogs (severe severity). Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (high concentration), proteolytic enzymes. Common symptoms: intense oral burning, excessive drooling, severe vomiting, difficulty swallowing, swelling of throat (can block breathing in severe cases).
How big does Dieffenbachia grow?
Dieffenbachia reaches about 180 cm tall and 90 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is moderate.