dumb cane
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A tropical evergreen houseplant: Dumb cane is a common name for plants of the Dieffenbachia genus, known for their attractive, large, patterned leaves.
- A poisonous plant: It contains calcium oxalate crystals and other compounds that can cause temporary but severe swelling of the mouth and throat if ingested, potentially leading to an inability to speak—hence the name "dumb cane."
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The dumb cane is a popular choice for offices because it tolerates low light.
- Keep dumb cane away from pets and small children, as it is toxic if chewed.
- Her dumb cane grew so large it needed to be repotted.
Advanced Usage
- "Toxic properties of dumb cane": Refers to the specific chemical defense mechanism of the plant.
- The article explained the toxic properties of dumb cane in detail.
- "Cultivating dumb cane": Refers to the practice of growing and caring for this plant.
- Cultivating dumb cane requires well-draining soil and indirect sunlight.
Variants and Related Words
- Dieffenbachia (n): The scientific botanical genus name for dumb cane.
- Several species of Dieffenbachia are sold as ornamental plants.
- Houseplant (n): A plant grown indoors; dumb cane is a type of houseplant.
- She has a collection of easy-care houseplants like pothos and dumb cane.
Synonyms
- Leopard lily: A common name for some species.
- Mother-in-law's tongue: Note: This is also a common name for (snake plant), but is sometimes incorrectly used for dumb cane due to the "sharp" (toxic) nature of both plants.
Related Phrases
- Poisonous houseplant: A general descriptive phrase that applies to dumb cane.
- Dumb cane is a well-known poisonous houseplant.
- Ornamental foliage plant: Describes dumb cane's primary decorative use.
- It is valued as an ornamental foliage plant for its striking leaves.
Noun
- an evergreen plant with large showy dark green leaves; contains a poison that swells the tongue and throat hence the name