Caring For and Maintaining Your Diffenbachia

Diffenbachia is a rapidly growing (up to 18-24" a year) houseplant that is native to the Caribbean and South America. Diffenbachia is an upright, thick-leaved, and lush houseplant that is light colored--typically yellow, white, or cream. Although it is very easy to grow and maintain, it is toxic to pets and humans.

 Sunlight: Diffenbachia prefers bright indirect light in the winter months and dappled shade in the summer months.

 Water: Diffenbachia enjoys moist but not soggy soil. Water your Diffenbachia when the top 2-3" of soil are completely dry. Water thoroughly--and don't let the soil ever dry out completely.

Humidity: Colorado is a dry state with humidity levels much lower than the native environments in which Diffenbachia inhabit. To help create a more humid environment for your Diffenbachia, consider adding a fine mist humidifier to the room(s) in which you have your Diffenbachia. You can also place trays filled with stones and water nearby your Diffenbachia to increase local humidity. Misting your Diffenbachia with a hand sprayer will also help raise the local humidity level. Although the more humidity the better, a constant relative humidity of 50-55% will promote Diffenbachia’s growth and health.

Temperature: Diffenbachia prefers temperatures in the range of 65-75 degrees F (18-24 degrees C). Avoid having your Diffenbachia experience temperatures below 60 degrees F (15 degrees C). Once the temperature falls below 60 degrees, your Diffenbachia might begin to lose its lower leaves. Keep your Diffenbachia out of drafty areas such as those created by open doors or air-conditioning vents.

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. We recommend either Fertilome or Fox Farm Potting mix.