Scientific Name
Dieffenbachia seguine 'Compacta' (Dieffenbach's genus, Seguin's species, variety: Compacta)
Common Name
Dumb Cane, Leopard Lily, Mother-in-Law's Tongue
Origin
Native to New World Tropics, from Mexico and the West Indies to Argentina
Description
This variety has a large amount of white variegation scattered across the leaf, from fully white around the central vein to white spotted with green, then green spotted with white before reaching the deep green edge of the leaf. The high level of variegation means this Leopard Lily will love a bright spot, so make sure it's somewhere you can easily read in daylight without extra light, although indirect light is still preferred! These Compactas are quite compact but will grow as you care for them; they can grow upwards to a metre and spread outwards in bushy foliage too, filling that spot on your shelf or sideboard with lush greenery and beautiful variegation.
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light. This variety has quite a lot of variegation so will appreciate plenty of light! If you notice new growth being more green than previous leaves, it may not be getting enough light.
Water
Allow the top third of the soil to dry out in between watering. Water with tepid or lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant.
Humidity
Likes high humidity; if you see brown or curling leaf tips, it will appreciate a mist or the addition of a humidity tray!
Soil
Use well-draining, soil-based compost; repot every couple of years as it grows.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Ideal temperature is 20-24°C; make sure it does not get colder than 15°C in winter.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
A loss of variegation likely means it's in too dark a spot; to keep them, move it somewhere brighter. Another indicator of this is dropping of lower leaves; this plant likes its light bright!
