Dieffenbachia and Chinese Evergreen are popular houseplants, often chosen for their striking foliage and ability to thrive indoors. Their similar appearances, featuring lush, patterned leaves, frequently lead to confusion. This article clarifies the distinctions between these two plants and provides care information for each.
Distinguishing Dieffenbachia and Chinese Evergreen
Key Differences
Dieffenbachia, often called Dumb Cane, belongs to the genus Dieffenbachia. Its leaves are typically larger, more elongated, and ovate, often displaying prominent variegation in shades of cream, yellow, or light green against a darker green background. Dieffenbachia stems are thicker and more cane-like, becoming visible as the plant matures and sheds lower leaves.
Chinese Evergreen, or Aglaonema, belongs to the genus Aglaonema. Its leaves are generally narrower and more lance-shaped or elliptical compared to Dieffenbachia, emerging directly from the soil or very short stems. Variegation patterns are diverse, ranging from subtle speckles to bold splashes of pink, red, silver, or white, often covering a larger portion of the leaf surface.
Shared Characteristics
Despite their differences, Dieffenbachia and Chinese Evergreen are often confused due to shared attributes. Both originate from tropical and subtropical regions, preferring warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. They are widely cultivated as indoor foliage plants, with similar broad leaf shapes and variegated patterns.
Dieffenbachia Care
Light Needs
Dieffenbachia thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window, where it receives ample light without direct sun exposure, is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, causing brown spots or bleached areas. Insufficient light may cause variegation to fade and the plant to become leggy.
Watering and Humidity
Consistent moisture is important for Dieffenbachia, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly, ensuring excess water drains. These plants appreciate high humidity. Misting foliage regularly, using a pebble tray, or placing a humidifier nearby can help.
Soil and Fertilization
A well-draining potting mix is important to prevent waterlogging. A blend formulated for aroids or a general houseplant mix amended with perlite or orchid bark provides good aeration and drainage. During the growing season, fertilize Dieffenbachia every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or cease fertilization during dormant winter months.
Chinese Evergreen Care
Light Needs
Chinese Evergreen plants tolerate lower light conditions. While they can survive in low light, medium to bright indirect light encourages more vibrant foliage colors and robust growth. Avoid direct, intense sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
Watering and Humidity
Water Chinese Evergreen when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. It is better to slightly underwater than overwater, as they are susceptible to root rot in constantly soggy soil. Like Dieffenbachia, they benefit from increased humidity. Regular misting, grouping plants, or using a humidifier can help.
Soil and Fertilization
Chinese Evergreen prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral potting mix. A standard houseplant potting mix that retains some moisture but drains efficiently is suitable. Consider adding perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. During the active growing period, feed your Chinese Evergreen every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Toxicity and Safety Precautions
Both Dieffenbachia and Chinese Evergreen contain calcium oxalate crystals, microscopic, needle-shaped crystals in their sap. When ingested or chewed, these crystals can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. Symptoms in humans may include pain, temporary speech impairment, and difficulty swallowing. For pets, symptoms can include oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
It is important to handle these plants with care, especially during repotting or pruning. Wearing gloves can prevent skin irritation from the sap. Always keep Dieffenbachia and Chinese Evergreen out of reach of children and pets. In case of exposure, rinse the affected area with water, and seek medical or veterinary attention.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing leaves on either Dieffenbachia or Chinese Evergreen often indicate improper watering. Check the soil moisture level before watering to ensure it is not constantly wet or completely dry. Brown leaf tips typically signal low humidity, a common issue indoors, and can be remedied by increasing ambient moisture.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites, mealybugs, or scale, can affect these plants. Regularly inspecting the undersides of leaves and stems helps detect pests early. Treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil manages most common infestations. Leggy growth or a loss of vibrant variegation often points to insufficient light.