My April column is the final installment of a 3-part series.  Each month from February to April I have discussed one of the common house plants contained in a very large, lush, indoor collection of houseplants that I am house sitting for a friend. 

The 3rd and final houseplant up for discussion in this mixed collection is a plant called DIEFFENBACHIA or Dumb Cane. This low growing plant completes the grouping nicely. It is the bottom layer in this three tier planting, followed by the mid-level Snake Plant, and tall Corn Plant. 

The leaf edges of the Dumb Cane are dark green with bright white to creamy coloring in the center.  Everything about this plant makes it ideal as a low growing plant in this collection.  There are many varieties of Dumb Cane some growing 5 feet tall and others remaining short, no more than one foot high. 

Dumb  Cane gets its name from the milky sap which is a mild irritant and should be kept from bare skin.  The sap is said to cause temporary loss of speech.  Keep children and pets away.  Water weekly, fertilize monthly and consider wearing gloves when pruning this plant to avoid contact with the sap.

Each of these common house plants is fine alone, but when planted together in a large grouping they are SPECTACULAR!   Each one brings an interesting set of colors, heights, and shapes to the party.  With minimal care, one plant or a whole big grouping of plants, will compliment whatever space you wish to fill. 

I have enjoyed house sitting these houseplants for my friend Pat.  They have graced a sunny corner in my living room all winter bringing life and color to what is/was, a long New England winter!  Welcome home Pat and Jerry you can pick up the kids anytime.

Cheers,
Deb (April 2018 Horticultural Newsletter)