Dieffenbachia seguine

Dumbcane, Dumb Cane, Leopard Lily, Tuftroot, Gold Dieffenbachia, Spotted Dumbcane, Variable Dieffenbachia

Native to the tropical rainforests and forest margins of the Caribbean, northern South America, and Amazonian Brazil, Dieffenbachia seguine grows as a robust, cane-forming understory plant that can reach 3 metres in the wild. Its broad, elliptic leaves — glossy dark green with irregular cream or white variegation — make it one of the most recognisable tropical houseplants in cultivation. All parts of the plant contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and a proteolytic enzyme, causing intense oral burning and swelling on contact; handle with gloves and keep away from children and pets. At full size it far outgrows most terrariums, but juvenile plants suit open or paludarium setups while they remain manageable — expect vigorous growth that will eventually need rehoming.