The Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’ is a captivating houseplant known for its distinctive foliage. Its large, dark green leaves are irregularly mottled with lighter green and speckled with white, creating a camouflage appearance. The unique texture of the midrib on the underside of each leaf, which is crested rather than smooth, resembles crocodile skin, hence its name. This plant can grow quite large, reaching over six feet tall with leaves over two feet long.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’ thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. An ideal placement is within three to four feet of a large, unobstructed east or west-facing window. While it can tolerate medium to lower light levels, the plant may not grow as vigorously or maintain its vibrancy in such conditions. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves and cause the colors to fade. If natural light is insufficient, artificial grow lights can supplement natural light or provide full illumination.
Watering
The plant prefers its soil to dry out somewhat between waterings, specifically when the top one to two inches of the potting mix feel dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Conversely, allowing the soil to become bone dry for extended periods can also stress the plant. The frequency of watering depends on environmental factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and pot size, so checking the soil moisture with a finger or moisture meter is beneficial.
Humidity and Temperature
Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’ prefers average to above-average relative humidity levels, ideally 40% or higher. While its thick leaves offer some tolerance to lower humidity, prolonged dry air can result in brown and crispy leaf tips or edges. To increase humidity, consider using pebble trays, a humidifier, or grouping plants together. The plant thrives in average room temperatures, generally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is important to protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (12.8°C), as sudden temperature shifts can shock the plant.
Soil and Fertilizing
A well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter is suitable for Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’. A common recommendation is a mix comprising one part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part pine bark, optionally with organic compost, to ensure good moisture retention, adequate drainage, and proper aeration. During the active growing season, typically spring and summer, the plant benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 blend, diluted according to product instructions, can be applied monthly or every two weeks. Fertilization should be reduced or withheld during the winter months when plant growth slows.
Addressing Common Problems
Yellowing leaves on a Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’ can stem from several factors, including both overwatering and underwatering. If the soil remains soggy, roots can suffocate, leading to yellowing and potential root rot. Conversely, insufficient water can also cause leaves to yellow and become crispy. Adjusting watering practices to ensure the top two inches of soil dry between waterings can help resolve this issue.
Brown leaf tips or edges often indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity through misting or pebble trays can help prevent these symptoms. Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems and sparse foliage, typically signals insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light can encourage more compact and robust growth.
Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can also affect Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’, causing symptoms like yellowing leaves due to their sap-sucking activity. Regular inspection of the plant and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage infestations. Natural aging also leads to the yellowing and shedding of older, lower leaves, which is a normal part of the plant’s life cycle.
Important Safety Information
Dieffenbachia plants, including the ‘Crocodile’ cultivar, contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested or if the plant’s sap comes into contact with skin or eyes. All parts of the plant contain these crystals.
Symptoms of exposure can include burning, swelling of the mouth and throat, drooling, and difficulty swallowing or speaking. Skin contact may cause rash, redness, swelling, and dermatitis. If sap enters the eyes, it can cause irritation, redness, and pain. To prevent accidental ingestion, particularly by children or pets, Dieffenbachia ‘Crocodile’ should be kept out of their reach. In case of exposure, rinse the affected area with water and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent.