Introduction to Dieffenbachia Sanguine (Dumb Cane) 

Dieffenbachia sanguinea, Is also commonly known by the name of Dumb Cane. The plant is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America and is known for its lash green leaves. With its distinct vibrant red stems, it adds a pop of colour wherever it is kept.  The plant is a popular plant for indoor house planting. Its unique foliage And leaves With the pattern of yellow, white and green make it an exquisite variety to have in the house.

The plant is a member of the Araceae family and likes a humid and warm climate. The plant Dieffenbachia sanguinea Is known for its ornamental value. Parts of the plant do contain oxalate crystals which are injurious to health if they come in contact with the skin or are ingested. Special caution must be borne with pets and children.

Read on to know more about Dumb Cane. 

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Characteristics of Dieffenbachia Sanguine ( In Table form)

To sum it all, Here are some basic characteristics of the Dieffenbachia Sanguine plant that will help you understand it better. 

How to propagate Dieffenbachia Sanguine

So if you have decided to bring the Dieffenbachia Sanguine (dumb cane) plant home, you should know how to propagate the plant in order to get the best out of it.  The plant can be propagated through several methods. But the popular methods are either by stem cutting or division.Here's how you can propagate it:

1. To propagate by Stem Cuttings
2. To propagate by Division

• To propagate by Stem Cuttings

1. Select a Healthy stem from the nodes.
2. Make a sharp cut. 
3. Remove the leaves or the flowers that are attached to this cut stem.
4. At this step, you can dip the cut in any route growth hormone.
5. Plant it in a small port with moist soil.
6. Now place the port in a human location where it receives indirect bright light.
7. Once roots begin to form, treat the cutting, like a plant.

• To propagate by Division

1. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections such that the shoot and the root are separated along.
2. Plant the new division in a pot filled with potting mix.
3. Water down the potted division.Keep the soil consistently moist until the divisions establish roots 

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How to care for Dieffenbachia Sanguine

In order to take care of the Dieffenbachia sanguinea (Dumb Cane) plant, few guidelines must be followed. Here are some of the ways in which you can take care of your Dieffenbachia sanguinea (Dumb Cane) plant:

1. The sunlight Requirements
2. The watering requirements.
3. The humidity.
4. The temperature to maintain.
5. Fertilisers.
6. Pruning needs. 
7. Pets and diseases.

• The sunlight Requirements: Place the plant in bright indirect sunlight such that it receives partial shade for most part of the day. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, As it may scorch the leaves and will damage the plant.

• The watering requirements: Avoid over watering the plant as it can easily lead to root rot. Regulate the watering conditions depending upon the climate and the season. The plant would require more watering during the growing season in essence, Spring and summer. But reduce the watering in the winter season.

• The humidity: Dieffenbachia sanguinea or the dumb cane plant, Likes high humidity due to its tropical origins. Group this plant with other plants that like high humidity and you're good to go! 

• The temperature to maintain: Ensure that the temperature of 18 to 24°C is maintained in order for the plant to thrive perfectly. 

• Fertilisers: The plant needs Fertilisers only during the growing season that is spring and summer. Avoid watering the plants in the winter season.  

• Pruning needs: Prune the plant as and when needed, and remove the dead parts of the plant. Make sure to wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid contact with the sap.

• Pets and diseases: Treat any infestations from clay with neem oil or soap, if you spider mites, mealybugs or aphids. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. 

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Fact about Dieffenbachia Sanguine

Did you know that the Dieffenbachia sanguinea (Dumb Cane) has its name "Dumb Cane" derived from its toxic sap, which contains calcium oxalate crystals?

Due to the presence of oxalate crystals, the plant is hazardous if ingested. And causes dumbness or loss of speech. Due to this unique characteristic, the plant is given the name Dumb Cane. This is an evolutionary trait that the plant has to avoid being eaten by herbivores. It is important to keep the plant away from children and pets. And as the plant must be handled carefully.

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Conclusion 

To wrap it up, Dieffenbachia sanguinea or Dumb Cane is a plant that you can bring in your home with proper care and caution. The plant is a good houseplant choice for its aesthetics. To know more about all things green and plant, follow us at Greenkin.