Dieffenbachia seguine

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.