Dieffenbachia seguine (Jacq.) Schott
| Etymology | Genus | After Dr. Ernst Dieffenbach, a 19th century German naturalist |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Unknown | |
| Family | Araceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Dumbcane, Dumb Cane | |
| Status | Exotic: Casual | |
| Form | Herb | |
| Native Distribution | Caribbean to tropical South America | |
Diagnostics:
Dieffenbachia seguine is a common ornamental plant because of its varigated leaves. It is also a common sight in secondary forests which are ex-kampungs. It is a short stout herb where the stem often run horizontally along the ground before growing upright. The petioles overlap each other before extending as broad large varigated leaves.
Interesting Facts:
It is known infamously as Dumbcane due to the white sap containing a high concentration of sharp calcium oxalate crystals, which when ingested, can cause intense pain and temporary speechlessness.
A bunch of Dumbcanes at Dairy Farm Park.
Twining stems along the forest floor.
Leaf.
Petiole.
Overlapping petioles.
Author: Siyang
Posted: 2025-10-19
Posted: 2025-10-19
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