Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia is a genus of tropical monocots with patterned leaves. Members of this genus are grown as houseplants.

The cells of the plant contain needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals called raphides. If a leaf is chewed, these crystals cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat; swelling can occur along with a temporary inability to speak, and from this effect the plants are commonly called dumb cane. Chewing could result in death if the swelling blocks the airway. Slaves were sometimes punished by having dieffenbachia put into their mouths.

Young children (at the age where they put everything into their mouths) are at risk of suffocation and death if they eat (or even just taste) dieffenbachia leaves. Some cats eat houseplants and flowers; they are similarly at risk.

If you have this plant in your house or yard, wash your hands after handling it to avoid spreading the calcium oxalate crystals to food or other parts of the body.