Unknown Houseplantplant and Care Concern
I got this plant from a stranger essentially, initially did well but I’m having some issues and would like to know what it is. Recently a lot of leaves are turning yellow and falling off and then some of the stalks keep breaking off at the base. I did not think I was watering it too much but perhaps there is some root rot. I could really use your help figuring out what this plant is so that I can take care of it properly and save it. Thank you
Hi Susanna,
Your plant is a dieffenbachia.
Here are some some care tips that might help you with your plant.
Light: Dieffenbachia Houseplants require medium to
high light. Direct sun burns the leaves and too much
bright light causes the vibrant leaf color to fade. When an indoor Dieffenbachia Plant does not get enough light, the new leaves are small and far apart on the stem.
Water: Water Dieffenbachia Houseplants well and then allow the top 2″-3″ of soil to dry out before watering again. These plants do best when watered on a regular schedule.
Fertilizer: Fertilize your Dieffenbachia only when the plant is actively producing new leaves. Most Dieffenbachia houseplants should be fed every two weeks in the summer and once a month in the spring and fall. Never feed a Dieffenbachia in the winter. Excess plant food causes browning around the edges of the leaves.
Temperature: Dieffenbachia Plants prefer temperatures above 60 degrees. The lower leaves on a Dieffenbachia turn yellow when exposed to cold drafts from doors, windows, or air conditioners.
You can read more about dieffenbachias in the Popular Houseplant section of the website.
https://www.houseplant411.com/houseplant/dieffenbachia-how-to-grow-care
These plants are considered poisonous and should be kept away from pets and children. Read more about common houseplants that are poisonous in Don’t Feed Me To Your Cat! A Guide to Poisonous Houseplants
