Definition

Noun: * A common name for the evergreen houseplant Dieffenbachia seguine. It is characterized by its large, showy, dark green leaves often variegated with white, cream, or yellow patterns. The name originates from the plant's toxic sap, which contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause intense, temporary swelling and numbness of the tongue and throat if ingested, humorously alluding to a talkative or critical mother-in-law.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The mother-in-law plant thrives in indirect light and adds a tropical feel to the room.
  • Be careful when repotting the mother-in-law plant as its sap can irritate the skin.
  • Many people are unaware that the common mother-in-law plant is toxic to pets.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used humorously or colloquially due to its implied meaning. In more formal or scientific contexts, the botanical names or are preferred.
• The phrase "hence the name" is frequently appended when explaining the plant to highlight the folk etymology behind its common title.

Variants and Related Words

• Dumb cane: Another common name for the same plant (), referring to the temporary speechlessness caused by its toxic sap.
• Dieffenbachia: The scientific genus name, used as a common name in horticulture.
• Evergreen plant: A general category describing plants that retain their leaves throughout the year.
• Toxic plant / Poisonous plant: General terms for plants harmful if ingested or touched.

Synonyms

• Dumb cane
• Dieffenbachia (scientific/common horticultural name)
• Leopard lily (a name for some varieties)

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is botanical, referring to a specific species of houseplant.
• The name carries a secondary, cultural-connotative meaning based on a popular joke or stereotype about mothers-in-law, implying they might "silence" someone. This connotation is metaphorical and humorous.

Noun

1. an evergreen plant with large showy dark green leaves; contains a poison that swells the tongue and throat hence the name