Description
- Common names:
- Dumb Cane Reflector, Dieffenbachia Reflector, Dumbcane, Leopard Lily, Mother-in-Law's Tongue Plant, Lotería, Planta de la suegra
- Botanical name:
- Dieffenbachia 'Reflector', Dieffenbachia seguine 'Reflector'
- Description:
- A stunning, easy-care tropical plant with deep green leaves adorned with lime green and yellow speckles and a striking whitish-green central vein—perfect for low-light spaces.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Rarity:
- Common Household Favorite
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Variegated Leaves, Architectural, Foliage Plant
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Central and South America
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Office, Bedroom, Low-Light Corners, Modern, Tropical, Scandinavian, Bohemian, Entryway Statement Piece
Care Guide
Care level:
Beginner Friendly+
This forgiving tropical thrives with minimal attention and tolerates common beginner mistakes like inconsistent watering. Its adaptability to low light and average home conditions makes it an ideal first houseplant.
Light:
Low Light Tolerant+
Thrives in low to medium indirect light, making it perfect for north-facing windows or rooms away from bright light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch and fade the beautiful variegation on the leaves.
Water:
Water When Dry+
Water thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch, typically once every 7-10 days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has drainage holes and never let the plant sit in standing water.
Humidity:
Low / Average Humidity+
Tolerates average household humidity levels of 40-50% but appreciates higher humidity of 60% or more for optimal growth. If leaf tips brown, consider placing the plant on a pebble tray or using a humidifier nearby.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C / 65-80°F and dislikes sudden temperature drops. Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperatures below 15°C / 60°F to prevent leaf damage.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures remain above 10°C / 50°F. In cooler zones, grow as an indoor houseplant or move outdoors to a shaded patio during warm summer months.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant's growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing out of drainage holes and the plant becomes top-heavy. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter and use well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the large leaves with a soft, damp cloth every 2-3 weeks to remove dust and allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently. Clean leaves also enhance the beautiful variegation and keep pests at bay.
Propagation:
Propagates by Cuttings+
Easily propagated by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings with at least two nodes and placing them in water or moist soil. Roots typically develop within 3-4 weeks in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.