DIEFFENBACHIA-COMPACTA (20 to 30 cm height)

Dieffenbachias consists of about 30 tropical perennials native to Costa Rica, Columbia, Brazil, Puerto Rico and the West Indies. Dieffenbachias are easy houseplants that tolerate a wide range of conditions. These plants are popular in homes and offices for their colorful, large leaves.They have a large, white-variegated leaves carried on upright stems brighten this rather soft plant. Most dieffenbachias will grow from 3 to 6 feet (1-1,8 m) tall and 1 to 3 feet (30-100 cm) wide. Individual leaves can be 18 inches (45 cm) long by 12 inches (30 cm) wide.

Dieffenbachia Compacta is more compact-growing than other varieties. Its cream colored leaves are brightly mottled with green, and it has a very full growth habit. It is perfect for areas of the home or office where space is limited.

Dieffenbachias will grow quickly in ideal conditions or barely at all if light is low. It need indirect or bright-diffused light and low humidity.

Dieffenbachias enjoy normal warm household temperatures. Temperatures from 60 to 75 °F (16-24°C) are ideal. Always protect dieffenbachias from cold and major changes in temperature.

Maintain soil on the dry side. Drench soil thoroughly, then allow it to become moderately dry before watering again. Water regularly from spring to autumn. Sparingly in winter. Over watering and stem rot are common problems, especially at low temperatures.

As these plants mature, lower leaves naturally drop to reveal attractive, trunklike stems. If the stems become too long and bare, you can rejuvenate the plant simply by cutting the stems back to about 6 inches (14 cm) tall. The plant will regrow below the cut.

If repotting is necessary, do so in early spring. Propagation is by cane cuttings, stem tip cuttings or air layering done in spring or early summer.

March through September use a house plant fertilizer.

Dieffenbachia sap causes mouth tissue to swell if chewed, which is hazardous to small children and pets.